Prediction of Fibrosis in Chronic Hepatitis C by Mean Platelet Volume and Platelet to Lymphocyte Ratio

Introduction: Hepatitis C is a chronic inflammatory condition that associated with fibrosis. Novel inflammatory markers have been suggested to be related inflammatory condition. Therefore, we aimed to investigate hemogram derived indices, such as, Mean Platelet Volume (MPV) and Platelet to Lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in hepatitis C subjects and to compare those in healthy controls. Materials and Methods: In present retrospective study, 17 HCV patients having mild fibrosis, 23 patients having advanced fibrosis and 68 control subjects were included whom visited outpatient clinics of our institution between 1.10. 2017 and 30.11.2019. Hemogram indices and laboratory characteristics were compared. Results: Median MPV values of the advanced fibrosis patients [8.3 (6.5-14) fL] was significantly higher than that of the mild fibrosis patients [7.9 (6.5-11.1) fL] (p=0.002) and control subjects [7.2 (4.6-10.7) fL] p<0.001) whereas MPV values of mild and advanced fibrosis patients were similar (p=0.750). Median PLR values of the mild fibrosis, advanced fibrosis and control groups were 103 (58-223) %, 86 (45-358) %, and 77 (64-96) %, respectively (p=0.010). A ROC analysis revealed that a MPV value greater than 7.3 fL determines advanced fibrosis with 76% sensitivity and 59% specificity. A PLR greater than 92% determines advanced fibrosis with 73% sensitivity and 64% specificity. Conclusion: We suggest that elevated PLR and MPV could predict of advanced fibrosis in chronic hepatitis C. Keywords: Hepatitis C, Fibrosis, Platelet to lymphocyte ratio, Mean platelet volume, Hemogram indices, Liver cirrhosis.