Role of platelet count and indices in the diagnosis of neonatal sepsis

Abstract

Introduction: Neonatal sepsis (NS) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Studies on the role of platelet indices (PIs) are limited. With this, a study was undertaken to evaluate thrombocytopenia and variations in PI in the diagnosis of NS. Methods: This was a prospective study, conducted in the Department of Pediatrics, Kakatiya Medical College, Warangal. Neonates aged <28 days with signs and symptoms of sepsis were included. Those without clinical or laboratory suspicion were excluded. The detailed history was collected and recorded. Physical examination was also recorded; 3 ml blood was collected for blood culture, C-reactive protein (CRP), and PI. Based on the clinical and laboratory findings, neonates were divided into sepsis proven (SP), probable infection, and non-infected categories. Results: A total of 110 were included; 41.8% were SP. The male–female ratio was 1.3. In the <3 CRP category, 32.3% (11) were SP. The majority (32; 36.36%) were 2–7 days aged; Klebsiella pneumoniae (14; 12.73%) was the leading causative agent. Severe thrombocytopenia was diagnosed in 18.2%, and 65% (13) were blood culture-positive. Increased PIs were observed. Conclusion: There was a rise in PI as well as CRP in NS. Hence, this combination can be used in the early diagnosis of NS.