Diagnostic and prognostic value of Platelet Indices as a potential biomarker in Preeclampsia: A Case-Control Study in a maternity hospital at Tashkent

Background: Preeclampsia (PE) is a significant pregnancy complication which is responsible for maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Overall 10 to 15% of direct maternal mortality is linked with preeclampsia and eclampsia. It is characterized by the new onset of hypertension and proteinuria after 20 weeks of gestation period. The objective of this study is to analyse whether platelet count (PC), mean platelet volume (MPV), and platelet distribution width (PDW) is involved in the onset of preeclampsia in patients and evaluate their correlation with the severity of disease. 

Methods: A case-control study was conducted at Tashkent in 58 pregnant women, among them 28 was preeclamptic (mild: n=15, severe: n=13) and 30 age-matched normotensive controls. Platelet indices on complete blood count (CBC). Data was analyzed using MS-excel and SPSS. 

Results: Platelet count was significantly low in preeclamptic patients compared to controls, lowest in severe preeclampsia. MPV and PDW were grossly elevated in preeclampsia (p<0.001) with an increasing trend in severe preeclampsia. MPV was positively correlated with systolic blood pressure (r=0.56, p=0.001), while PDW also moderately correlated with hypertension (r=0.46, p=0.013).

Conclusion: Platelet indices, particularly MPV and PDW, can be used as potential severity markers in preeclampsia. Their prognostic implications in clinical practice can help in early risk stratification and management and prevent impending eclampsia.