Etiology of Thrombocytopenia and Its Correlation with Platelet Indices: A Tertiary Care Hospital-Based Retrospective Study

Abstract

Introduction: Thrombocytopenia results from either increased destruction or reduced production of platelets. Although bone marrow examination is the diagnostic gold standard, it is invasive, costly, and may cause bleeding. Therefore, it is not preferred as an initial test. Automated hematology analyzers now offer platelet indices that help identify the underlying cause non-invasively.

Objectives: To analyze the platelet parameters (Mean Platelet Volume, plateletcrit, Platelet Distribution Width) between hyperdestruction thrombocytopenia and hypoproduction thrombocytopenia, find the etiology of thrombocytopenia with clinical correlation, to compare the platelet indices with degrees of severity of thrombocytopenia and to analyze age and gender-wise distribution of thrombocytopenia.

Methods: This study was done in 92 thrombocytopenic patients after ethical approval. Participants for the study will be selected from patients undergoing investigations for hematological abnormalities Complete blood counts including platelet indices were analyzed using an automated hematology analyzer, and bone marrow examination findings were reviewed. Data were analyzed.

Results: Hypoproductive thrombocytopenia was more common (73.91%) than hyperdestructive (26.09%), with acute myeloid leukemia being the commonest cause. Males had a slight predominance, especially in the hyperdestructive group. The greatest burden of moderate to severe thrombocytopenia cases was observed in the 45–54 age group. Plateletcrit and platelet count were better markers of severity. Mean platelet volume and platelet distribution width were considerably greater in hyperdestructive thrombocytopenia but did not differ by severity.

Conclusions: Classification based on etiology is necessary for precise diagnosis and treatment. Bone marrow examination remains crucial, especially in unclear cases, as opposed to infection-related thrombocytopenia, where non-invasive tests may suffice.