A case–control study to evaluate the role of mean platelet volume and platelet distribution width in acute ischemic stroke

Background: Ischemic stroke is known to be one of the foremost causes of long-term disability and death, and platelets play a pivotal role in its pathophysiology. However, the platelet indices having a role in ischemic stroke are not routinely reported in the available literature. Objective: The objective of the study was to evaluate the potential role of mean platelet volume (MPV) and platelet distribution width (PDW) in the development of ischemic stroke, especially in the South Indian region. Materials and Methods: This case–control study was conducted on 80 patients who were broadly divided into two groups: the case group (patients with ischemic stroke) and the control group (patients without ischemic stroke). Platelet indices were measured using Mindray BC-5200 auto hematology analyzer, and the results were analyzed using Student's t-test and Wilcoxon rank-sum Test. Results: There was a statistically significant difference (P < 0.001) in the MPV and PDW values between the two groups. The difference between the area under the curve for both MPV and PDW was also found to be statistically significant (P < 0.001) in the receiver operating characteristic curve. However, the differences in the values of MPV and PDW across different age groups, genders, and various comorbid conditions were not found to be significant. Conclusion: The elevated platelet indices may be associated with the development of ischemic stroke. The MPV and PDW can be prospective biochemical markers for predicting the onset of ischemic stroke.