A PROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY FOR RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THROMBOCYTOPENIA AND CULTURE POSITIVE NEONATAL BACTERIAL SEPSIS

Background: Changes in Platelet parameters like Mean Platelet Volume and Platelet Distribution Width are helpful in diagnosis of neonatal sepsis but these indices have not been extensively studied in neonatal sepsis. Hence, the present study is undertaken to evaluate Platelet count and platelet indices in diagnosis of neonatal sepsis. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted over a period of 4 months i.e from December 2019 to March 2020 in neonatal intensive care unit of Jhalawar Medical College & Attached Hospitals, Jhalawar. During the study period 154 consecutive neonates (both inborn and out born), with clinical signs and symptoms of sepsis along with either positive culture (confirmed neonatal sepsis ) or other laboratory findings suggestive of bacterial and fungal infection in absence of positive cultures (probable sepsis), were included after written informed consent from parents. Results: Out of total (154), 81.8%, 76% and 67.5% of cases had thrombocytopenia, raised MPV (>10.8) and raised PDW respectively. As compared to Non-sepsis group, MPV values were raised in more cases of Sepsis proven group (88%) and the difference was statistically significant with P value of 0.011. PDW values were also more increased in Sepsis proven group compared to Non-sepsis group. Conclusion: Platelet count and platelet indices, which are easily available hematological parameters in remote & resource poor areas of our country, should be taken into consideration for suspected cases of neonatal sepsis so that prompt treatment can be given, and morbidity and mortality can be reduced. Keywords: Sepsis, CRP, MPV, PDW.