Platelet mean volume, distribution width, and count in type 2 diabetes, impaired fasting glucose, and metabolic syndrome: a meta-analysis

The impact of depression on platelet activation, cardiocerebral vascular events and arteriovenous fistula dysfunction in patients undergoing haemodialysis

Depression is a common psychiatric disorder among patients undergoing maintenance haemodialysis (MHD). Depression may reportedly contribute to poor prognosis in several ways, including its effects on platelet function. We hypothesised that depression contributes to the occurrence of cardiocerebral vascular events (CCVE) and dysfunction of arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) in patients undergoing MHD through its effects on platelets. In this prospective cohort study, patients undergoing MHD were recruited and divided into depression and non-depression groups according to their Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD) scores. The 286 enrolled patients had 103 occurrences of depressive symptoms (prevalence = 36.01%). Compared with the non-depression group, depression group had a significantly higher cumulative prevalence of CCVE and DAVF during follow-up. Cox regression analysis indicated that higher HAMD scores and lower plasma platelet distribution width (PDW) were common risk factors for CCVE and DAVF. Furthermore, HAMD scores were significantly negatively correlated with plasma PDW and was the main variable affecting changes in PDW, as indicated by multiple linear regression analysis. Depression may increase the risk of CCVE and DAVF in patients undergoing MHD by activating platelets. Plasma PDW may be a convenient indicator of platelet activation status and may predict the risk of CCVE and DAVF.

The Role of Platelet Distribution Width in the Association Between Blood Glucose and Neurological Impairment Severity in Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Moderated Mediation Model

Objective

Fasting blood glucose (FBG) is a recognized risk factor for Ischemic Stroke, but little research has examined the interaction among FBG, Platelet Distribution Width (PDW) and the severity of neuronal damage. Thus, the present study constructs a moderated mediation model aimed to elucidate the relationships among FBG, PDW, and NIHSS scores in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS).

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study on 431 AIS patients. Upon hospital admission, we assessed the patients' NIHSS scores and collected blood samples to measure FBG and PDW levels. The relationship between FBG and NIHSS scores moderated by PDW was analyzed by linear curve fitting analysis, multiple linear regression analysis, and moderated mediation analysis respectively.

Results

In the tertile grouping based on FBG, both PDW and NIHSS scores of AIS patients demonstrated an increase corresponding with rising levels of FBG (p<0.001 for both). Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that, the β coefficients (95% CI) for the relationship between FBG and NIHSS scores were 1.49 (1.27-1.71, p<0.01) post-adjustment for potential confounders. The β coefficients (95% CI) for the relationship between FBG and PDW were 0.02 (0.01-0.04, p<0.01) post-adjustment. Likewise, for the relationship between PDW and NIHSS scores, the β coefficients (95% CI) were 4.33 (3.07-5.59, p<0.01) after adjustment. These positive association remained consistent in sensitivity analysis and hierarchical analysis. Smoothed plots suggested that there are linear relationships between FBG and PDW and NIHSS scores respectively. Further mediation analysis indicated that increased PDW significantly (p<0.01) mediated 5.91% of FBG-associated increased NIHSS scores.

Conclusion

This study suggested that FBG levels were associated with NIHSS scores, and the FBG-associated neurological impairment may be partially mediated by PDW. These findings underscore the importance of monitoring FBG and PDW levels in AIS patients, potentially guiding risk intervention strategies.

Association of platelet distribution width with all-cause and cause-specific mortality in US adults

BACKGROUND

Platelet distribution width (PDW) indicates heterogeneity in circulating platelet sizes. Studies reporting PDW association with mortality were limited by small sample sizes. Therefore, we examined the relationship between PDW and all-cause and cause-specific mortality in a large representative cohort.

METHODS

The NHANES III data were linked to mortality files to examine the association between PDW and mortality. We excluded participants <18 years old and had a history of myocardial infarction. Since the hazards violated the proportionality assumption, we used piece-wise spline with 5-year time intervals in Cox models without and with adjustment for age, gender, race, smoking history, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, eGFR and total cholesterol.

RESULTS

Of 15,688 participants, 53.2% were females, 36.2% had a history of hypertension, and 6368(40.6%) died during follow-up (range 0 to 31 years). The mean (SD) age of the participants was 47(20) years, platelet count was 275.0(71.7) 109/L, and PDW 16.5(0.5). In multivariable analyses, PDW was associated with all-cause mortality at 0-5 years (HR = 1.44; 95%CI = 1.21, 1.72; P < 0.001) and at 5-10 years (HR = 1.23; 95%CI =1.03, 1.46; P = 0.02). Similarly, PDW association was significant for the first 0-5 years in cardiovascular mortality (HR = 1.58, 95%CI = 1.10, 2.25; P = 0.013) and for cancer mortality (HR = 1.48 (1.15, 95%CI = 1.15, 1.91, P = 0.003). For other-cause mortality, PDW remained significantly associated for 0-5 years (HR = 1.35, 95%CI =1.05, 1.74; P = 0.02) and for 5-10 years (HR = 1.38, 95%CI = 1.05, 1.83; P = 0.023).

CONCLUSIONS

PDW is an independent, but time-dependent, predictor of all-cause, cardiovascular, cancer and other-cause mortality up to 5 years. The mechanisms underlying this association need further study.

Follow-up study to explore the relationship between Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio and impaired fasting glucose-using the group-based trajectory modeling

Previous studies have indicated a link between neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and impaired fasting glucose (IFG), but the findings have been disputed. By conducting a real-world follow-up study, we can monitor the development of diseases and confirm the connection between NLR and IFG. A total of 1168 patients without IFG or T2DM were followed up for six years. At baseline, participants' NLR levels, fasting plasma glucose and other clinical characteristics were recorded. During the follow-up period, NLR levels and the prevalence of IFG were recorded. Ultimately, 45 individuals were lost to follow-up, leaving 1,123 participants for analysis. Using Group-Based Trajectory Modeling (GBTM), the sample was divided into three groups. The prevalence of IFG in the three groups was 12.1%, 19.4%, and 20.85%, respectively. Compared with the low-level NLR group, the hazard ratio of IFG in the moderate-level NLR group and high-level NLR group were 1.628 (1.109-2.390) and 1.575 (1.001-2.497), respectively. There was a significant interaction effect of BMI and NLR on the risk of IFG (P < 0.001). In this real-world follow-up study, we observed a positive association between NLR and the risk of IFG, with this relationship being exacerbated by obesity status.

Pros and cons of live kidney donation in prediabetics: A critical review and way forward

There is shortage of organs, including kidneys, worldwide. Along with deceased kidney transplantation, there is a significant rise in live kidney donation. The prevalence of prediabetes (PD), including impaired fasting glucose and impaired glucose tolerance, is on the rise across the globe. Transplant teams frequently come across prediabetic kidney donors for evaluation. Prediabetics are at risk of diabetes, chronic kidney disease, cardiovascular events, stroke, neuropathy, retinopathy, dementia, depression and nonalcoholic liver disease along with increased risk of all-cause mortality. Unfortunately, most of the studies done in prediabetic kidney donors are retrospective in nature and have a short follow up period. There is lack of prospective long-term studies to know about the real risk of complications after donation. Furthermore, there are variations in recommendations from various guidelines across the globe for donations in prediabetics, leading to more confusion among clinicians. This increases the responsibility of transplant teams to take appropriate decisions in the best interest of both donors and recipients. This review focuses on pathophysiological changes of PD in kidneys, potential complications of PD, other risk factors for development of type 2 diabetes, a review of guidelines for kidney donation, the potential role of diabetes risk score and calculator in kidney donors and the way forward for the evaluation and selection of prediabetic kidney donors.

Mean platelet volume: a prognostic marker in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction

Heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is associated with high burden of comorbidities known to increase the mean platelet volume (MPV). This parameter has been associated with morbidity and mortality in HF. However, the role of platelets and the prognostic relevance of MPV in HFpEF remain largely unexplored. We aimed to evaluate the clinical usefulness of MPV as a prognostic marker in HFpEF. We prospectively enrolled 228 patients with HFpEF (79 ± 9 years; 66% females) and 38 controls of similar age and gender (78 ± 5 years; 63% females). All subjects underwent two-dimensional echocardiography and MPV measurements. Patients were followed-up for a primary end point of all-cause mortality or first HF hospitalization. The prognostic impact of MPV was determined using Cox proportional hazard models. Mean MPV was significantly higher in HFpEF patients compared with controls (MPV: 10.7 ± 1.1fL vs. 10.1 ± 1.1fL, p = .005). HFpEF patients (n = 56) with MPV >75th percentile (11.3 fL) displayed more commonly a history of ischemic cardiomyopathy. Over a median follow-up of 26 months, 136 HFpEF patients reached the composite endpoint. MPV >75th percentile was a significant predictor of the primary endpoint (HR: 1.70 [1.08; 2.67], p = .023) adjusted for NYHA class, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, loop diuretics, renal function, and hemoglobin. We demonstrated that MPV was significantly higher in HFpEF patients compared with controls of similar age and gender. Elevated MPV was a strong and independent predictor of poor outcome in HFpEF patients and may be relevant for clinical use.

Association between systemic immune-inflammation index and diabetes: a population-based study from the NHANES

Background

Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index (SII) has been reported to be associated with diabetes. We aimed to assess possible links between SII and diabetes.

Methods

Data were obtained from the 2017-2020 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database. After removing missing data for SII and diabetes, we examined patients older than 20 years. Simultaneously, the relationship between SII and diabetes was examined using weighted multivariate regression analysis, subgroup analysis, and smooth curve fitting.

Results

There were 7877 subjects in this study, the average SII was 524.91 ± 358.90, and the prevalence of diabetes was 16.07%. Weighted multivariate regression analysis found that SII was positively associated with diabetes, and in model 3, this positive association remained stable (OR = 1.04; 95% CI: 1.02-1.06; p = 0.0006), indicating that each additional unit of SII, the possibility of having diabetes increased by 4%. Gender, age, BMI, regular exercise, high blood pressure, and smoking did not significantly affect this positive link, according to the interaction test (p for trend>0.05).

Discussion

Additional prospective studies are required to examine the precise connection between higher SII levels and diabetes, which may be associated with higher SII levels.

Insulin Resistance-Induced Platelet Hyperactivity and a Potential Biomarker Role of Platelet Parameters: A Narrative Review

Background

Insulin has an inhibitory effect on platelets; however, this is compromised in circumstances of Insulin Resistance (IR), leading to platelet hyperactivity. Platelet parameters such as mean platelet volume, platelet count, and platelet distribution width are simple and accessible potential biomarkers for the early diagnosis and prognosis of IR. Therefore, the aim of this review is to provide insight on the current status of knowledge regarding IR-induced platelet hyperactivation and the potential biomarker role of platelet parameters.

Methods

This narrative review included articles published in the English language. Searches were carried out at the electronic databases PubMed and Google Scholar. The search strategy was done by combining key words and related database-specific subject terms (Mesh terms) with the appropriate Boolean operators.

Conclusion

Increasing insulin sensitivity in insulin resistant patients would possibly cause substantial reduction in platelet activation, which in turn reduce complications related with platelet hyperactivation. The standard methods to measure IR are not frequently employed in clinical practice due to their expensiveness and complexity. Thus, early detection of IR using a simple and more widely available biomarkers such as mean platelet volume, platelet count and platelet distribution width would be beneficial. Particularly in developing countries where resource scarcity is a major constraint of the health sector, utilizing such easy and affordable biomarkers may have a crucial role.

Prediction of type 2 diabetes mellitus using hematological factors based on machine learning approaches: a cohort study analysis

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a significant public health problem globally. The diagnosis and management of diabetes are critical to reduce the diabetes complications including cardiovascular disease and cancer. This study was designed to assess the potential association between T2DM and routinely measured hematological parameters. This study was a subsample of 9000 adults aged 35-65 years recruited as part of Mashhad stroke and heart atherosclerotic disorder (MASHAD) cohort study. Machine learning techniques including logistic regression (LR), decision tree (DT) and bootstrap forest (BF) algorithms were applied to analyze data. All data analyses were performed using SPSS version 22 and SAS JMP Pro version 13 at a significant level of 0.05. Based on the performance indices, the BF model gave high accuracy, precision, specificity, and AUC. Previous studies suggested the positive relationship of triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index with T2DM, so we considered the association of TyG index with hematological factors. We found this association was aligned with their results regarding T2DM, except MCHC. The most effective factors in the BF model were age and WBC (white blood cell). The BF model represented a better performance to predict T2DM. Our model provides valuable information to predict T2DM like age and WBC.

Parameters and Morphological Changes of Erythrocytes and Platelets of COVID-19 Subjects: A Longitudinal Cohort Study

Purpose

Information about dynamic changes occurring in the parameters and morphology of erythrocytes and platelets during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection and convalescence is scarce. To explore potential associations between dynamic erythrocyte and platelet parameters, morphological changes, and the course or severity of the disease is essential.

Patients and Methods

From January 17th, 2020, to February 20th, 2022, we followed up on 35 patients with non-severe and 11 patients with severe COVID-19 following their discharge. We collected clinical features, dynamic complete blood count (CBC), and peripheral blood smears (PBS) and analyzed parameter and morphological changes of erythrocytes and platelets depending on the course or severity of the disease. The course of the disease included four periods, namely onset (T1), discharge (T2), 1-year follow-up (T3), and 2-year follow-up (T4).

Results

Red blood cell (RBC) counts and hemoglobin were the lowest in T2, followed by T1, and lower in T1 and T2 than in T3 and T4. Inversely, the red blood cell distribution width (RDW) was the highest in T2, followed by T1, and higher than in T3 and T4. Compared to non-severe patients, the platelet of severe patients was lower in T1 and T2. In contrast, the mean platelet volume (MPV) and platelet distribution width (PDW) tended to be higher in severe patients. Similarly, anisocytosis was more common in peripheral blood smears at early stages and in severe patients. Finally, large platelets were more common in severe patients.

Conclusion

Anisocytosis of erythrocytes and large platelets are found in patients with severe COVID-19, these changes may help primary hospitals to identify patients with a high risk of severe COVID-19 at an early stage.

Usefulness of Complete Blood Count (CBC) to Assess Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases in Clinical Settings: A Comprehensive Literature Review

Complete blood count (CBC) is one of the most common blood tests requested by clinicians and evaluates the total numbers and characteristics of cell components in the blood. Recently, many investigations have suggested that the risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease (CVD), arteriosclerosis, type 2 diabetes (T2DM), and metabolic syndrome can be predicted using CBC components. This review introduces that white blood cell (WBC), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), hemoglobin (Hb), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), red cell distribution width (RDW), platelet count, mean platelet volume (MPV), and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) are useful markers to predict CVD and metabolic diseases. Furthermore, we would like to support various uses of CBC by organizing pathophysiology that can explain the relationship between CBC components and diseases.

Comparison of thrombocytopenia between patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and those with hepatitis C virus-related chronic liver disease

AIM

Thrombocytopenia is widely recognized as a simple surrogate marker of liver fibrosis in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Thrombocytopenia of NAFLD has not been compared with that of hepatitis C virus-related chronic liver disease (CLD-C). Here, we examined whether there is any difference in the platelet counts between patients with NAFLD and CLD-C and investigated the underlying mechanisms.

METHODS

A total of 760 biopsy-confirmed NAFLD and 1171 CLD-C patients were enrolled. After stratification according to the liver fibrosis stage, platelet counts between NAFLD and CLD-C patients were compared. The platelet count, spleen size, serum albumin level, serum thrombopoietin level, and immature platelet fraction (IPF) value were also compared after covariate adjustment using propensity score (PS) matching.

RESULTS

The median platelet counts (×10⁴ /μL) of NAFLD and CLD-C patients were 20.2 and 18.7 (p = 2.4 × 10^-5 ) in F1; 20.0 and 14.5 (p = 2.1 × 10^-12 ) in F2; 16.9 and 12.3 (p = 8.1 × 10^-10 ) in F3; and 11.1 and 8.1 (p = 0.02) in F4, respectively. In the F3 group, NAFLD patients had a significantly higher platelet count and significantly smaller spleen volume than CLD-C patients. Although the serum thrombopoietin levels were comparable between NAFLD and CLD-C patients, the IPF value of NAFLD patients was significantly higher than that of CLD-C patients.

CONCLUSIONS

NAFLD patients had a significantly higher platelet count than CLD-C patients following stratification according to the liver fibrosis stage. The milder hypersplenism and higher platelet production in NAFLD than CLD-C may have contributed to this difference.

Platelet-associated parameters in patients with psoriasis: A PRISMA-compliant systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The relationship between platelet-associated parameters and psoriasis has been controversial. The purpose of our meta-analysis was to assess whether platelet count, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), mean platelet volume (MPV), and platelet distribution width (PDW) are associated with psoriasis.

METHODS

We performed a thorough documentation retrieval via PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science until June 2021. Pooled standardized mean differences (SMDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using a random-effects model.

RESULTS

Overall, 22 studies involving 1749 patients with psoriasis and 1538 healthy controls were selected for the meta-analysis. The outcomes showed that platelet count presented non-significant differences between psoriatic patients and normal individuals (SMD = 0.12, 95% CI =  -0.07 to 0.32, P = .210), while PLR (SMD = 0.28, 95% CI = 0.03-0.53, P = .031), MPV (SMD = 0.55, 95% CI = 0.30-0.79, P < .001), and PDW (SMD = 0.29, 95% CI = 0.03-0.55, P = .027) were remarkably greater in the psoriatic patients than in the healthy individuals, and similar results were found in subgroup analyses. The analytical results of susceptibility revealed that the outcomes were robust, and no evidence of substantial publication bias was identified.

CONCLUSION

Patients with psoriasis present significantly higher PLR, MPV, and PDW than healthy individuals, suggesting that psoriasis is accompanied by low-grade systemic inflammation and platelet activation.

[Résistance à l'aspirine : l'ennemi de mon ami est mon ennemi]

Low dose aspirin is an efficient antiplatelet agent to decrease the risk of occlusive arterial events, however it is not infallible. Aspirin resistance describe its inability to block the formation of thromboxane A2 in platelets and/or to produce an inhibitory effect on platelet aggregation. Detection of aspirin resistance relies on the results of various platelet function tests or on blood and urinary thromboxane metabolites concentrations, but these methods show very low correlation and reproducibility. Moreover, light-transmission aggregometry using arachidonic acid, known as the reference functional assay, requires technical expertise. The incidence rate of aspirin resistance amoung populations suffering from cardiovascular diseases is about 25%, however there is a wide variability depending on the specificity of the used test and the clinical features of the considered population. Aspirin resistance is associated with the recurrence of arterial occlusive events: the odds ratio is about 4 all tests combined, therefore it could be considered as a risk marker. Evidence is lacking regarding the relevance of these tests to resort an intensification of the antithrombotic treatment, and experts recommend to reserve their use for high-risk situations. Nevertheless several studies have explored the effect of dose increases or intake frequency increases, and revealed encouraging results regarding pharmacodynamic endpoints. The reasons for aspirin resistance are numerous, often remain debate, and can accumulate to result in poor response to aspirin.

Mean Platelet Volume is Associated with Pancreatic β-Cell Dysfunction in Nondiabetic Patients with Coronary Artery Disease

Purpose

Mean platelet volume (MPV) is an indicator of platelet activation. Pancreatic β-cell dysfunction is one of the fundamental defects contributing to the development of type 2 diabetes. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between β-cell dysfunction and MPV in nondiabetic patients with coronary artery disease (CAD).

Patients and Methods

A total of 1143 consecutive nondiabetic patients (874 males and 269 females; mean age 60.0±10.3 years) with CAD were recruited for this analysis. All patients were individuals who underwent coronary angiography with a suspicion of CAD. Homeostatic model assessment 2 (HOMA2) of β-cell function (HOMA2-β%) was performed, and β-cell dysfunction was defined by a HOMA2-β% in the lowest quartile.

Results

MPV was significantly higher in CAD patients with β-cell dysfunction than in controls [(10.6±1.0)fl vs (10.0±1.0)fl, P=0.011]. According to the multiple regression model, pancreatic β-cell dysfunction was independently associated with MPV (β=0.210, P=0.006) and age (β=0.008, P=0.028).

Conclusion

MPV was significantly elevated in nondiabetic CAD patients with β-cell dysfunction compared to patients with normal β-cell function.

Platelet Distribution Width Is Associated with P-Selectin Dependent Platelet Function: Results from the Moli-Family Cohort Study

Defined as an index of platelet size heterogeneity, the platelet distribution width (PDW) is still a poorly characterized marker of platelet function in (sub)clinical disease. We presently validated PDW as a marker of P-selectin dependent platelet activation in the Moli-family cohort. Platelet-bound P-selectin and platelet/leukocyte mixed aggregates were measured by flow cytometry in freshly collected venous blood, both before and after in vitro platelet activation, and coagulation time was assessed in unstimulated and LPS- or TNFα-stimulated whole blood. Closure Times (CT) were measured in a Platelet Function Analyzer (PFA)-100. Multivariable linear mixed effect regression models (with age, sex and platelet count as fixed and family structure as random effect) revealed PDW to be negatively associated with platelet P-selectin, platelet/leukocyte aggregates and von Willebrand factor (VWF), and positively with PFA-100 CT, and LPS- and TNF-α-stimulated coagulation times. With the exception of VWF, all relationships were sex-independent. In contrast, no association was found between mean platelet volume (MPV) and these variables. PDW seems a simple, useful marker of ex vivo and in vitro P-selectin dependent platelet activation. Investigations of larger cohorts will define the usefulness of PDW as a risk predictor of thrombo-inflammatory conditions where activated platelets play a contributing role.

Hemogram-based decision tree for predicting the metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular diseases in the elderly

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to build a hemogram-based decision tree to evaluate the association between current probability of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and prediction of future hypertension, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) risk.

METHODS

A total of 40 395 elder participants (≥60 years) were enrolled in a standard health examination program in Taiwan from January 1999 to December 2014. A decision tree classification of the presence or absence of MetS at baseline, using age, sex and hemogram (white blood cell, hemoglobin and platelet) as independent variables, was conducted for the randomly assigned training (70%) and validation (30%) groups. Participants without MetS at baseline (n = 25 643) were followed up to observe whether they developed MetS, hypertension, type 2 diabetes or CVD in the future.

RESULTS

Modest accuracy of the decision tree in the training and validation groups with area under the curves of 0.653 and 0.652, respectively, indicated an acceptable generalizability of results. The predicted probability of baseline MetS was obtained from decision tree analysis. Participants without MetS at baseline were categorized into three equally sized groups according to the predicted probability. Participants in the third tertile had significantly higher risks of future MetS (hazard ratio 1.40, 95% confidence interval 1.25-1.58); type 2 diabetes (1.46, 1.17-1.83); hypertension (1.14, 1.01-1.28); and CVD (1.21, 1.01-1.44), compared with those in the first tertile.

CONCLUSIONS

Execution of hemogram-based decision tree analysis can assist in early identification and prompt management of elderly patients at a high risk of future hypertension, type 2 diabetes and CVD.

Effects of Nutrients on Platelet Function: A Modifiable Link between Metabolic Syndrome and Neurodegeneration?

Metabolic syndrome increases the risk of vascular dementia and other neurodegenerative disorders. Recent studies underline that platelets play an important role in linking peripheral with central metabolic and inflammatory mechanisms. In this narrative review, we address the activation of platelets in metabolic syndrome, their effects on neuronal processes and the role of the mediators (e.g., serotonin, platelet-derived growth factor). Emerging evidence shows that nutritional compounds and their metabolites modulate these interactions-specifically, long chain fatty acids, endocannabinoids and phenolic compounds. We reviewed the role of activated platelets in neurovascular processes and nutritional compounds in platelet activation.

Long-Term Prognostic Value of Mean Platelet Volume in Patients with Hypertension

Background

Although it has been shown that high mean platelet volume (MPV) is associated with target organ damage in hypertensive patients, the relationship between MPV and the development of long-term major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) has not been thoroughly investigated. In this study, we investigated the relationship between MPV and long-term MACE in hypertensive patients.

Methods

From September 2011 to July 2017, 1507 patients with hypertension were included in this study. Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring was performed in all patients. Patients with chronic renal failure, cardiovascular disease, chronic systemic disease and white coat hypertension were excluded from the study. MACE were defined as myocardial infarction, stroke and cardiovascular mortality. Patients were followed-up until january 2020.

Results

The mean follow-up duration was 87 (83.3 ± 24.4) months, and 876 patients completed the study. MACE developed in 79 patients, while 797 patients were event-free. In univariate Cox regression analysis, age, diabetes mellitus (DM), MPV, creatinine, 24-hour systolic blood pressure, and non-dipper hypertension were found to be associated with the development of MACE. In multivariate Cox regression analysis, creatinine and 24-hour systolic blood pressure lost significance, and age, DM, non-dipper hypertension and MPV were found to be independent predictors for MACE development (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p = 0.044, and p = 0.049, respectively).

Conclusions

MPV, age, DM, and non-dipper hypertension were independent predictors of long-term MACE in hypertensive patients.

Genetic variants associated with platelet count are predictive of human disease and physiological markers

Platelets play an important role in hemostasis and other aspects of vascular biology. We conducted a meta-analysis of platelet count GWAS using data on 536,974 Europeans and identified 577 independent associations. To search for mechanisms through which these variants affect platelets, we applied cis-expression quantitative trait locus, DEPICT and IPA analyses and assessed genetic sharing between platelet count and various traits using polygenic risk scoring. We found genetic sharing between platelet count and counts of other blood cells (except red blood cells), in addition to several other quantitative traits, including markers of cardiovascular, liver and kidney functions, height, and weight. Platelet count polygenic risk score was predictive of myeloproliferative neoplasms, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, hypertension, and benign prostate hyperplasia. Taken together, these results advance understanding of diverse aspects of platelet biology and how they affect biological processes in health and disease.

Evgenia Mikaelsdottir et al. report a study of variants associated with platelet count among European individuals where they identify 577 associations. They also report a genetic overlap between platelet count and human diseases, including myeloproliferative neoplasms, rheumatoid arthritis, and hypertension, as well as a genetic overlap between platelet count and various physiological markers.

The platelet to high density lipoprotein -cholesterol ratio is a valid biomarker of nascent metabolic syndrome

AIMS

The metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a major global problem, and inflammation and insulin resistance appear to be key underpinnings in this cardio-metabolic cluster. MetS predisposes to an increased risk of diabetes and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). It has a procoagulant diathesis which included increased platelet activity and impaired fibrinolysis. High density lipoprotein (HDL) appears to be anti-thrombotic. Accordingly, we examined the ratios between platelets to HDL-cholesterol(C) and adiponectin (Adipo) in patients with nascent MetS without the confounding of diabetes, ASCVD and smoking to determine their validity as biomarkers of MetS.

METHODS

Patients with nascent MetS (n = 58) and matched controls (n = 44) were recruited. Fasting blood samples were obtained for complete blood counts, basic metabolic panel, lipids, insulin, and Adipo. Ratios of platelets to HDL-C and Adipo were calculated.

RESULTS

Following adjustment for adiposity, only the platelet: HDL ratio was significantly increased in MetS and increased with severity of MetS. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that the platelet: HDL-C area under the curve (AUC) significantly added to both platelets and platelet lymphocyte ratio AUCs. Also the platelet: HDL-C ratio correlated with all cardio-metabolic features of MetS, high sensitivity C-reactive protein, insulin resistance chemerin, and leptin.

CONCLUSIONS

The ratio of platelets: HDL-C is significantly increased in patients with nascent MetS and appear to be a valid biomarker of MetS. It could also emerge as a biomarker for athero-thrombotic risk. However, these preliminary findings need confirmation in large prospective studies.

The role of systemic inflammation in the association between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D and type 2 diabetes mellitus

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The association between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) remains inconclusive. Moreover, whether inflammatory biomarkers are involved in this association has not been explored. This study aims to investigate serum 25(OH)D in relation to T2DM in a Chinese population and provide clues for the inflammatory mechanism whereby serum 25(OH)D deficiency increases T2DM risk.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study of 47,803 participants aged 18-96 years was performed in a health management center in 2017. Multivariate linear or logistic regression models and mediation analysis were used to examine the relationships between serum 25(OH)D, inflammatory biomarkers (white blood cell counts and mean platelet volume), and T2DM.

RESULTS

Of the 47,803 participants included, 5.2% were diabetic and 51.4% were serum 25(OH)D deficient. The study revealed a significant inverse association between serum 25(OH)D and T2DM risk after adjustment for potential confounders (P for trend = 0.002); the multivariate-adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) across serum 25(OH)D levels (sufficiency, insufficiency, and deficiency) were 1.00 (reference), 1.17 (1.03-1.33), and 1.25 (1.09-1.43), respectively. This study also showed a significant indirect effect of serum 25(OH)D on T2DM risk through total white blood cell count, neutrophil count, lymphocyte count, and monocyte count (P values < 0.05); the proportions mediated were 9.89%, 7.51%, 2.94%, and 2.82%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Serum 25(OH)D deficiency was independently associated with an elevated risk of T2DM in a Chinese adult population and low-grade systemic inflammation might be one of its biological mechanisms.

Platelet Distribution Width and Mortality in Hemodialysis Patients

Objectives

The association between platelet distribution width (PDW) and mortality in hemodialysis (HD) patients has received little attention.

Methods

We retrospectively enrolled HD patients in a single center from January 1, 2008, to December 30, 2011. The primary and secondary endpoints were all-cause and cardiovascular mortality, respectively. The association between PDW and mortality was estimated by Cox regression model.

Results

Of 496 patients, the mean age was 52.5 ± 16.6 years, and the Charlson comorbidity index was 4.39 ± 1.71. During the follow-up period of 48.8 ± 6.7 months, 145 patients (29.2%) died, including 74 (14.9%) cardiovascular deaths. 258 (52.0%) with PDW < 16.31% were in the low group and 238 (48.0%) in those with PDW ≥ 16.31% according to cut-off for all-cause mortality by receiving-operator characteristics. After adjusting for confounding factors, high PDW values were independently associated with higher risk of all-cause (hazards ratio (HR) = 1.49, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.15-6.82) and cardiovascular deaths (HR = 2.26, 95% CI 1.44-3.63) in HD patients. When comparing with quartile 1 of PDW, quartile 4 of PDW was independently associated with a higher risk of all-cause (HR = 1.59, 95% CI 1.18-5.30) and cardiovascular deaths (HR = 2.71, 95% CI 1.49-3.76) in HD patients.

Conclusions

Baseline PDW was independently associated with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in HD patients.

The diagnostic value of platelet distribution width in patients with mild COVID-19

COVID-19 has a worldwide distribution; however, there is no effective diagnosis marker, especially for the mild-type COVID-19. The purpose of the current study was to identify parameters for mild-type COVID-19. We retrospectively analyzed a single-center data of patients with mild COVID-19. Forty patients diagnosed with COVID-19 were enrolled. Peripheral blood indices between the admission and discharge times were collected and analyzed. The platelet distribution width (PDW) was shown to be an indicator of significant change. The receiver operating characteristic curve for PDW was 0.7; the sensitivity and specificity for PDW were 82.5% and 55.0%, respectively. Therefore, a potential diagnostic value of PDW for mild-type COVID-19 was demonstrated.

EVALUATION OF THE RELATIONSHIP OF MPV, RDW AND PVI PARAMETERS WITH DISEASE SEVERITY IN COVID-19 PATIENTS

Coronavirus was first detected in three severe pneumonia cases in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. Studies on red cell distribution width (RDW-CV) and mean platelet volume (MPV) laboratory parameters, which can be examined in complete blood count in COVID-19 patients, are still very limited. However, to the best of our knowledge, there are no studies examining the relationship between platelet volume index (PVI) and disease severity in COVID-19 patients, which was evaluated in this study. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship of disease severity in COVID-19 patients with their MPV, RDW, and PVI parameters. The study included 92 COVID-19 patients as a study group and 84 healthy individuals as control group. All laboratory data and radiological images were scanned retrospectively from patient files and hospital information system. Evaluation of the RDW-CV and MPV blood parameters, and PVI measured in COVID-19 patients yielded statistically significant differences according to the disease severity. We suggest that RDW-CV and PVI, evaluated within the scope of the study, may be the parameters that should be considered in the early diagnosis of the disease, from the initial stages of COVID-19. In addition, we think that the RDW-CV and MPV laboratory parameters, as well as PVI, which all are simple, inexpensive and widely used hematologic tests, can be used as important biomarkers in determining COVID-19 severity and mortality.

The association between platelet indices and cardiovascular events in chronic kidney disease patients without dialysis

PURPOSE

Previous studies have indicated that platelet indices are related to the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). However, it is unclear which platelet-related indicators are associated with CVD events in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) without dialysis.

METHODS

We performed a single-center prospective cohort study involved 1391 CKD patients to explore the relationship between platelet indices and CVD events in CKD patients. A nomogram was generated to predict CVD-free survival after 3 and 5 years of follow-up in terms of the fitted Cox regression model. And the time-dependent receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curves were applied to evaluate the prediction accuracy of platelet indices on CVD events.

RESULTS

During a median follow-up of 3.41 years, 211 (15.2%) patients experienced CVD events. Results showed that platelet counts (PLT), plateletcrit (PCT), platelet-large cell ratio (P-LCR), and platelet distribution width (PDW) among 5 platelet indices were significantly lower in advanced CKD stages. Cox regression model showed that PLT, PDW, and PCT were associated with CVD events. However, after multivariable-adjusted, low level of PLT, hazard ratio (HR) 0.994 and 95% confidence interval (95% CI 0.989-1.000, p = 0.04), and PDW, HR 0.936 (95% CI 0.878-0.998, p = 0.044) predicted CVD events. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) of platelet indices assessed by time-dependent ROC curve analysis showed that only PLT and PDW were significant for predicting CVD events for 5 years.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrated that PLT and PDW among 5 platelet indices were independently associated with CVD events in patients with CKD.

Mean Platelet Volume and Platelet Distribution Width Correlate with Microvascular Complications in Egyptian People with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

BACKGROUND

Type 2 diabetes is a part of metabolic syndrome associated with a higher risk of vascular complications. Diabetes is characterized by changes in platelet morphology, function, and platelet hyperactivity so, it's considered a prothrombotic condition. Morbidity and mortality in people with type 2 diabetes-related to micro and macrovascular complications. Novel biomarkers are needed to identify and treat people at higher risk.

OBJECTIVE

The main objective of this controlled cross-sectional study was to evaluate Platelet volume indices (PVI) in subjects with type 2 diabetes with and without complications in comparison to subjects without diabetes.

METHODS

Hundred and thirty-five subjects aged from 35 to 60 years were subdivided into 3 groups. Group A includes 55 subjects with type 2 diabetes with complications. Group B includes 45 subjects with type 2 diabetes without complications. Group C includes 35 normal healthy subjects. Detailed clinical history was taken. Also, PVI, fasting blood glucose (FBG), hemoglobin A1c, and creatinine were obtained.

RESULTS

Mean Platelet Volume (MPV), Platelet Distribution Width (PDW), Plateletcrit (PCT), and Platelet large cell ratio (P-LCR) were significantly higher among subjects with retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy than other subjects with diabetes who didn't develop complications (P<0.001). At cutoff value > 11.9 fL, MPV have diagnostic sensitivity 80% and specificity 97.8%. Whereas PDW >16.9fL has a sensitivity of 74.5% and specificity of 100% for diabetic microvascular complications (retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy).

CONCLUSION

MPV and PDW may be considered as possible biomarkers for the early detection of diabetic microvascular complications.

Antithrombotic therapy and revascularisation strategies in people with diabetes and coronary artery disease

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus, largely type 2, affects nearly 10% of the global adult population according to the World Health Organization. Diabetes is an independent risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases, including coronary artery disease. Diabetes patients experience a two to three-fold increased incidence of coronary artery disease, despite improved metabolic control and management of other cardiovascular risk factors.

DISCUSSION

Platelet abnormalities and activation as well as reduced antiplatelet drug responsiveness characterise diabetes mellitus. Mechanisms linking diabetes to platelet and vascular abnormalities, atherogenesis and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease are still only partially known, highlighting the unique complexity of the pro-atherogenic clinical scenario and its treatment. Consistently, a higher residual cardiovascular risk characterises patients with diabetes compared with those without, in spite of improved antiplatelet and antithrombotic treatment combinations. Randomised clinical trials aimed at optimising antiplatelet treatment specifically in patients with diabetes are lacking, both in acute and chronic coronary artery disease settings. Thus, patients with diabetes are treated with regimens validated in studies including only variable proportions of diabetes patients. Myocardial revascularisation appears to confer a comparable relative benefit between diabetes patients and patients without diabetes, and generally coronary artery bypass grafting has a better outcome in diabetes mellitus versus peripheral coronary intervention. New glucose-lowering drugs have been shown to reduce the incidence of major cardiovascular events in secondary prevention. Type 1 diabetes mellitus remains less explored than type 2 in this context.

CONCLUSION

Diabetes-tailored antithrombotic strategies in acute and chronic coronary artery disease remain an unmet clinical need, requiring ad-hoc trials and precision pharmacological strategies.

Prediabetes Deserves More Attention: A Review

Evidence increasingly demonstrates that prediabetes is a toxic state, as well as a risk factor for diabetes, and is associated with pathophysiological changes in several tissues and organs. Unfortunately, use of available evidence-based treatments for prediabetes is low. This review seeks to explain why prediabetes must be viewed and treated as a serious pathological entity in its own right. It offers an overview of the pathophysiology and complications of prediabetes and describes how this condition can be reversed if all treatment avenues are deployed early in its course.

Systemic and local factors associated with reduced thrombolysis in myocardial infarction flow in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction patients with plaque erosion detected by intravascular optical coherence tomography

Local factors of plaque rupture (e.g. lipid burden) are related to preprocedural thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) flow grade during primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). However, the pathological mechanism differs between plaque erosion and rupture. We aimed to identify the factors associated with reduced TIMI flow in plaque erosion. A total of 329 ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients with optical coherence tomography (OCT) identified plaque erosion were divided into 2 groups by preprocedural TIMI flow grade [TIMI 0-1 group (n = 219) and TIMI 2-3 group (n = 110)]. Patients in TIMI 0-1 group were older (age > 50 years, 68.5% vs. 51.8%, P = 0.003), and had more diabetes mellitus (18.3% vs. 8.2%, P = 0.015). Plaque erosion with TIMI flow 0-1 was less frequently located in the left anterior descending artery (LAD, 58.4% vs. 72.7%, P = 0.011), but more frequently located in the right coronary artery (RCA, 34.2% vs. 7.3%, P = 0.001) than those with TIMI flow 2-3. TIMI 0-1 group had more lipid plaques (53.9% vs. 41.8%, P = 0.039), macrophage accumulation (59.8% vs. 41.8%, P = 0.002), and calcification (34.2% vs. 21.8%, P = 0.020). In the multivariable analysis, age > 50 years, diabetes mellitus, RCA location, and macrophage accumulation were the independent predictors of reduced TIMI flow grade in STEMI patients with plaque erosion. Systemic factors (older age and diabetes mellitus) and local factors (RCA location and macrophage accumulation) were independently associated with reduced coronary flow in STEMI patients with plaque erosion. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION : ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03084991 May 17, 2017 (retrospectively registered).

Characteristics of platelet indices and their prognostic significance in selected medical condition - a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Platelets, also called thrombocytes, are produced in bone marrow and are the second most numerous blood cells which circulate in blood and play a pivotal role in hemostasis, wound healing, angiogenesis. There is a large body of evidence that platelets are likely to contribute to inflammation in multiple diseases. Also, recent studies revealed the association between platelet indices (PI) and inflammation.

METHODS

PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar databases were searched and only papers published in the last 10 years were consequently analyzed.

RESULTS

The most frequently evaluated parameters are mean platelet volume (MPV), platelet diversity index (PDW), plateletcrit (PCT) and the presence of larger platelets (P-LCRs platelet larger cell ratio). The values of platelet indices (PI) were elevated in patients suffering from type 2 diabetes mellitus, myocardial infarction, cancers or acute surgical conditions, such as appendicitis. The measurement of PIs does not generate additional costs and can be performed during routine cell blood count, not requiring additional blood samples.

CONCLUSIONS

Platelet indices may have prognostic and predictive value in numerous conditions.

Platelet parameters in Chinese older adults with metabolic syndrome

PURPOSE

We aimed to examine the associations of platelet parameters with the presence of metabolic syndrome in community-dwelling older Chinese adults.

METHODS

Study sample was from the Weitang Geriatric Diseases Study, which included 4338 individuals aged 60 years or above. The mean age of the participants was 68 years. Metabolic syndrome was defined based on the Adult Treatment Panel III criteria. Platelet parameters were assessed using an automated hematology analyzer. Multiple logistic regression models were fitted to examine relationships between the platelet parameters and the presence of metabolic syndrome after adjusting for potential confounders.

RESULTS

The adjusted odds ratio (95% CI) of metabolic syndrome for the highest quartile of platelet parameters (platelet count, mean platelet volume, plateletcrit, platelet distribution width, platelet larger cell ratio) when compared to the lowest quartile were 1.32 (1.06, 1.64), 1.00 (0.81, 1.24), 1.37 (1.10, 1.71), 1.45 (1.14, 1.83), 1.11 (0.89, 1.39), respectively. Hypertension and diabetes modified the relationship between platelet distribution width and metabolic syndrome with the associations being significant in hypertensive and non-diabetic groups. The levels of platelet distribution width increased with the risk of metabolic syndrome in men but not in women.

CONCLUSION

The levels of platelet count, plateletcrit and platelet distribution width increased in older adults with metabolic syndrome, suggesting that these parameters may be useful biomarkers for further risk appraisal of metabolic syndrome in aged population.

Association between Hemogram Parameters and Coronary Collateral Development in Subjects with Non-ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction

OBJECTIVE

Coronary collateral development (CCD) predicts the severity of coronary heart disease. Hemogram parameters, such as mean platelet volume (MPV), eosinophil, red cell distribution width, and platelet distribution width (PDW), are supposed novel inflammatory markers. We aimed to compare hemogram parameter values in patients presenting with non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) with adequate or inadequate CCD.

METHODS

A total of 177 patients with NSTEMI undergoing coronary arteriography were enrolled and divided into two groups based on the development of CCD: one group with adequate CCD (n=88) and the other with impaired CCD (n=89).

RESULTS

Baseline demographics and clinical risk factors were similar between the groups. Hemogram parameters were not significantly different between the two groups. However, compared to the inadequate CCD group, the median PDW was significantly higher in the adequate CCD group, 17.6 (1.4) vs. 17.8 (1.6) p=0.004. In a multivariate analysis, PDW (p=0.001, 95% CI for OR: 0.489(0,319-0,750) was found to be significantly different in the adequate CCD group compared to the inadequate CCD group. Pearson's correlation analysis revealed that PDW was significantly correlated with the Rentrop score (r=0.26, p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

We suggest that since PDW is an index that is inexpensive and easy to assess, it could serve as a marker of CCD in patients with NSTEMI.

Rapid platelet count improvement in chronic hepatitis C patients with thrombocytopenia receiving direct-acting antiviral agents

The effect of direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) on short-term platelet improvement in chronic hepatitis C (CHC) patients with thrombocytopenia is unclear.From December 2015 to March 2018, a total of 249 CHC patients receiving DAA treatment with baseline thrombocytopenia (platelet count <150 × 10 /μL) at Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital were enrolled in this retrospective study. Blood examinations were conducted at baseline (BL), week 4 (W4) after DAA initiation, end of treatment (EOT), and 12 weeks after EOT (P12).Hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotyping revealed that 184 patients (73.9%) carried HCV genotype 1. Of the patients in the cohort, 87 (34.9%) were interferon (IFN)-experienced, and 213 (85.5%) had advanced fibrosis. All but 1 patient achieved SVR12 (sustained virologic response (SVR) rate, 99.6%; 248/249). The platelet count recovered significantly in 104 patients (41.7%; 104/249). The mean baseline platelet count was 102 × 10/μL before DAA, increasing to 116 × 10/μL, 114 × 10/μL, and 113 × 10/μL at W4, EOT, and P12, respectively. Comparison of the mean platelet count at baseline with that at W4, EOT, and P 12 showed statistically significant increases at all time points (W4 vs BL, P < .001; EOT vs BL, P < .001; P12 vs BL, P < .001). Multivariate analyses revealed moderate or severe fatty liver (P = .024) and lower baseline platelet count (P = .005) was significantly associated with platelet count improvement.In conclusion, thrombocytopenia associated with CHC rapidly improves with the administration of DAA. Moderate or severe fatty liver and lower baseline platelet count predict significant improvement of platelet count.

Mean platelet volume and coronary artery disease

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To critically review the literature describing links between mean platelet volume (MPV) and cardiovascular disease (CVD). We will focus on coronary artery disease (CAD). The MPV is measured routinely as part of a routine blood count.

RECENT FINDINGS

There is accumulating evidence showing that the MPV may predict CVD, as well as outcomes in patients with CAD. There is also evidence linking MPV and comorbidities (e.g. diabetes mellitus and impaired glycaemic control) that are expected in patients with CAD. The effect on MPV of drugs commonly used to treat CAD has not been clarified, but there is some evidence that they may exert a beneficial effect on the MPV. More specifically, the MPV may predict the effect of antiplatelet drugs (e.g. clopidogrel). There is also evidence relating MPV to stroke, atrial fibrillation, coronary artery ectasia and periprocedural outcomes after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

SUMMARY

Measuring the MPV may prove useful in CVD risk assessment in patients with established CAD or at risk of developing CAD. Overall, there is evidence pointing to the role of MPV as a contributor rather than simple marker of CVD.

Platelet volume indices as predictive biomarkers for diabetic complications in Type 2 diabetic patients

BACKGROUND:

Platelet volume indices (PVI) such as mean platelet volume (MPV), platelet distribution width (PDW), and platelet-large cell ratio (P-LCR) are the indicators of increased platelet activity and can be considered as potential biomarkers for diabetic complications.

PURPOSE:

To study PVI in Type 2 diabetics with and without complications in comparison to nondiabetic patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A case–control study was conducted on 300 Type 2 diabetics and 200 nondiabetics. Detailed clinical history regarding duration, hypertension, and complications was taken. PVI was obtained using automated cell counter. Fasting blood glucose, hemoglobin A1c, lipid profile, creatinine were also obtained. Diabetics were further categorized into patients with complications and without complications. Statistical analysis was performed by Statistical Package for the Social Sciences Version 17 (Chicago, IL) Student's t-test and ANOVA test.

RESULTS:

Platelet count was significantly decreased in diabetics (P = 0.005). MPV was significantly increased in diabetic patients with complications as compared to diabetics without complications and nondiabetic group (P < 0.0001). PDW showed statistically significant difference between diabetics with and without complications and nondiabetics (P < 0.0001). However, no statistically significant difference was observed in platelet-large cell ratio (P-LCR) among all the three study groups. We found statistically significant correlation of MPV with diabetic retinopathy (P = 0.000), nephropathy (P = 0.005), and diabetic foot (P = 0.048). PDW was significantly increased in diabetic retinopathy (P = 0.035) and nephropathy (P = 0.007). P-LCR had no statistically significant correlation with diabetic complications.

CONCLUSION:

MPV and PDW are predictive biomarkers of diabetic vascular complications. They are more significant in microvascular complications than macrovascular complications.

Aspirin in the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease in diabetes mellitus: A new perspective

Although the improved control of hyperglycaemia and other cardiovascular risk factors was associated with a parallel decline of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and death in both type 1 (T1) and type 2 (T2) diabetes mellitus (DM), the burden of death and hospitalization for ASCVD remains significantly higher by about 2-fold versus the matched non-DM population. Life style interventions, such as physical activity and healthy diet, and drugs, such as statins and low-dose aspirin, may have beneficial effects by targeting one or multiple pathways responsible for accelerated atherosclerosis and its thrombotic complications. The debate on the benefit-risk balance of primary cardiovascular prevention with aspirin has been especially vivacious over the past two years, following the publication of three large randomized, placebo-controlled, primary prevention trials in different settings, spanning from healthy elderly to DM subjects. The aim of this review is to discuss the pathophysiological, pharmacological and clinical evidence supporting the appropriate use of low-dose aspirin in DM, within the context of the current multifactorial approach to primary cardiovascular prevention.

The variation degree of coagulation function is not responsible for extra risk of hemorrhage in gestational diabetes mellitus

BACKGROUND

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is characterized as glucose intolerance of any degree that begins or first diagnosed during pregnancy. It possesses a higher risk of haemorrhage, which may be caused by the coagulation dysfunction. However, there has been no study focus on how coagulation state changes in the progress of GDM pregnancy. Our study is aimed to assess the association of coagulation function and haemorrhage in GDM.

METHODS

A total of 662 subjects (273 from a population-based study and 389 from a prospective cohort study) were selected to measure mean platelet volume (MPV), platelet distribution width (PDW), platelet (PLT), thrombocytocrit (PCT), prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), thrombin time (TT), and fibrinogen (FIB). All pregnant individuals were divided into normal glucose tolerance (NGT) controls and GDM patients diagnosed between the 24th and 28th weeks of gestation.

RESULTS

Compared with NGT controls, GDM females showed shortened PT, shortened APTT, and increased blood FIB levels, while the platelet parameters MPV, PDW, PLT, and PCT remained unchanged in mid-pregnancy. By late pregnancy, the platelet parameters MPV, PDW, and PCT were increased in the GDM group compared with the NGT group, while PT and APTT were unchanged.

CONCLUSIONS

The GDM group was hypercoagulable compared with the NGT group rather than hypocoagulable as predicted, but still within the normal range. Therefore, our findings demonstrate that the variation degree of coagulation function is not responsible for extra risk of hemorrhage in GDM, and prevention of hemorrhage should focus on other causes.

Platelet to lymphocyte ratio correlates with diabetic foot risk and foot ulcer in patients with type 2 diabetes

Diabetic foot ulcer is a major complication in patients with diabetes. Platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) has been reported to have a predictive effect to some diabetic complications in recent years. However, it has not been fully elucidated about the relationship between diabetic foot risk or diabetic foot ulcer and PLR in patients with type 2 diabetes. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate this relationship. In this cross-sectional study, we evaluated the relationships between patient's diabetic foot risk with the criteria of the International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot (IWGDF) and prevalent foot ulcer, and PLR in 453 consecutive patients with type 2 diabetes. Propensity score analysis was used to adjust the difference of covariates; age, sex, duration of diabetes, body mass index (BMI), HbA1c, current smoking, hypertension, dyslipidemia, neuropathy, PAD, foot deformity and history of foot ulcers. PLR was higher in patients with high risk diabetic foot or foot ulcer (117 ± 40 vs. 107 ± 31, p = 0.003 and 148 ± 65 vs. 113 ± 56, p < 0.001). A receiver-operating characteristic curve demonstrated that PLR of 130.6 constitutes the cut-off value for prevalent foot ulcer with sensitivity 0.85 and specificity 0.70. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that PLR was positively correlated with prevalent foot ulcer (odds ratio, 1.02; 95% confidence interval 1.01-1.04, p = 0.003) after adjusted for several variables with propensity score analysis. Our results demonstrated that PLR can be a marker for high risk diabetic foot and diabetic foot ulcer in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Platelets as Potent Signaling Entities in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a multifactorial disease with a dysregulated circulating inflammatory molecule tendency. T2DM is closely associated with systemic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, cardiovascular risk, and increased clotting susceptibility. Platelets have fundamental roles in the development and propagation of inflammation and cardiovascular risk. They signal through membrane receptors, resulting in (hyper)activation and release of inflammatory molecules from platelet compartments. This review highlights how circulating inflammatory molecules, acting as platelet receptor ligands, interact with platelets, causing platelets to be potent drivers of systemic inflammation. We conclude by suggesting that focused platelet research in T2DM is an important avenue to pursue to identify novel therapeutic targets, and that platelets could be used as cellular activity sensors themselves.

Platelet distribution width, platelet count, and plateletcrit in diabetic retinopathy: A systematic review and meta-analysis of PRISMA guidelines

BACKGROUND

Screening and diagnosis of diabetic retinopathy (DR) mainly depends on fundus examination, which is not an intuitive and simple screening or diagnostic method. Recently, the relationship between platelet parameters and DR has become a hot topic. Whether platelet parameters have clinical value in DR is controversial.

METHODS

Literature was retrieved by formal search of electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane library, Scopus, and CNKI) and by hand searching of reference lists of related articles from the beginning of building database to December 2017. Review manager 5.3 was utilized to deal with statistical data. This study was registered at International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (number: CRD42018093773).

RESULTS

This study included 1720 DR patients, 1477 type 2 diabetic mellitus (T2DM) without DR patients and 1456 health controls in 21 eligible studies. We found there was significant increase of platelet distribution width (PDW) level in the comparison of DR versus Control group (standard mean difference [SMD] [95% confidence interval [CI]] = 1.04 [0.68, 1.40]) and DR versus T2DM without DR group (SMD [95% CI] = 0.68 [0.40, 0.95]). For platelet count (PLT), it showed obvious decrease in the comparison of DR versus T2DM without DR group (SMD [95% CI] = -0.26 [-0.49, -0.03]) and no difference in comparison of DR versus Control (SMD [95% CI] = -0.26 [-0.51, -0.00]). Subgroup analysis showed that significant result of PDW level appeared in China and Turkey in all comparisons, while similar results of PLT only in China. In addition, PDW level was different in various DR-subtypes, obvious high level in proliferation DR.

CONCLUSIONS

We concluded that the guiding significance of PDW and PLT in diagnosis and monitor of DR, and especially, application of PDW to PDR management may have potential sense.

Association between platelet distribution width and serum uric acid in Chinese population

Platelet distribution width (PDW) is a simple and inexpensive parameter, which could predict activation of coagulation efficiently. And it has been confirmed to have a significant role in many diseases. We aimed to explore the association between PDW and hyperuricemia in a large Chinese cohort. This cross-sectional study recruited 61,091 ostensible healthy participants (29,259 males and 31,832 females) after implementing exclusion criteria. Clinical data of the enrolled population included anthropometric measurements and serum parameters. Database was sorted by gender, and the association between PDW and hyperuricemia was analyzed after dividing PDW into quartiles. Crude and adjusted odds ratios of PDW for hyperuricemia with 95% confidence intervals were analyzed using binary logistic regression models. We found no significant difference in PDW values between the genders. Males showed significantly higher incidence of hyperuricemia than females. From binary logistic regression models, significant hyperuricemia risks only were demonstrated in PDW quartiles 2 and 3 in males (P < 0.05). This study displayed close association between PDW and hyperuricemia as a risk factor. It is meaningful to use PDW as a clinical risk predictor for hyperuricemia in males. © 2019 BioFactors, 45(3):326-334, 2019.

Platelet Indices Alterations in Children With Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

Platelet (PLT) hyperactivity is a key factor which contributes to cardiovascular complications in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus even in preclinical stages of disease. To the best of our knowledge, there is limited researches in this regard among patients with type 1 diabetes. The aim of this study was to evaluate hematologic indices indicating PLT activity in children with type 1 diabetes. This was a case-control study which was conducted on 166 inpatients in 17 Shahrivar children hospital, Rasht, Iran during April 2016 to April 2017. Cases and controls were 83 children with type 1 diabetes mellitus and 83 children hospitalized for thorough assessment of short stature, respectively. Groups were matched for age and sex. Demographic characteristics and hematologic variables were assessed. The Shapiro-Wilk test was used to determine the normality of the distribution. Results for continuous and categorical variables were demonstrated as mean±SD and number and percent, respectively. Continuous variables without normal distribution were demonstrated as median (interquartile range). The χ/Fisher's exact test was used to compare categorical variables. The normal and non-normal distributed quantitative variables were respectively assessed by independent T-test or Mann-Whitney U test. P-value <0.05 noted statistical significance. The median (interquartile range) age of all children was 10 (6 to 13) years old. Thirty-five (42.2) of patients with diabetes and 35 (42.2) of control group were male individuals. There were positive correlation between age (r=0.370; P=0.001), hemoglobin (r=0.278; P=0.009), blood sugar (r=0.243; P=0.027), PLT distribution width (r=0.229; P=0.038), plateletcrit (PCT) (r=0.290; P=0.008), PLT to lymphocyte ratio (r=0.230; P=0.037) and glycosylated hemoglobin in children with diabetes. The cut-off point of PCT was 0.19 (sensitivity=87.8%, specificity=66.7%). Only increased PCT (>0.19) was related with poor metabolic control and can put the patients to the risk of future cardiovascular events. The authors recommend considering multiple PLT parameters, and not just one of them, and even designing a scoring system in terms of PLT parameters for type 1 diabetes mellitus management programs.

Association of glycemic status and interferon-γ production with leukocytes and platelet indices alterations in type2 diabetes

AIMS

The present study aimed to evaluate the correlation between glycemic status and the inflammation biomarkers; leukocytes, platelets indices and interferon gamma (IFN-γ) production in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients regarding diabetic complications.

METHODS

Study was conducted on 158 patients allocated as normal healthy subjects (50) and 108 patients diagnosed as T2DM. The diabetic patients were subdivided into six groups according to metformin administration as mono-or dual therapies.

RESULTS

The current results exhibited a significant elevation in systolic blood pressure, total and LDL-cholesterol levels and IFN-γ as well as a noticeable decrease in HDL-cholesterol and anti-atherogenic factor values compared to the healthy patients. Leukocytes and neutrophils count, main platelets volume (MPV) and platelet distribution width (PDW) values revealed noticeable elevations in most treated T2DM groups, while a marked depletion was recorded in platelets count compared to healthy subjects. Glycemic control, most treated diabetic patients with metformin mono- and dual therapies showed an ameliorative effect in HbA1c, IFN-γ, MPV, and PDW values compared to recent diabetic ones.

CONCLUSION

Diabetes was correlated significantly with dyslipidemia and atherogenic risk in parallel with an increase in IFN-γ production and hematological inflammatory biomarkers; leukocytes, neutrophil/lymphocyte and platelet/lymphocyte ratios, MPV and PDW values. The amelioration in inflammatory biomarkers was associated with improvement in glycemic control.

Evaluation of platelet distribution width in hypertension with hyperhomocysteinemia

An increased platelet distribution width (PDW) value has been found in various cardiovascular diseases. The objective of this study was to evaluate the association between the PDW and hypertension with hyperhomocysteinemia in an elderly cohort. We performed a cross-sectional analysis among 2,685 elderly individuals who underwent hematological testing and blood pressure assessment. Individuals were divided according to the PDW quartiles. An unconditional multiple logistic regression analysis was used to determine the association between PDW and hypertension with hyperhomocysteinemia, after adjustments for gender, age, drinking status, creatinine levels, glucose levels, uric acid levels, triglyceride levels, platelet counts and body mass index. Homocysteine was observed to steadily and remarkably increase in the PDW quartiles. The PDW values of the hypertension with hyperhomocysteinemia group were significantly greater than the PDW values in the hypertension without hyperhomocysteinemia group or the normotension group. The PDW levels were associated with hypertension and hyperhomocysteinemia independently of the previously mentioned risk factors, and the odds ratio of the hypertension with hyperhomocysteinemia group was steadily and remarkably increased, by as much as two-fold, in the fourth quartile vs. the first quartile. In this elderly population-based cohort, elevated PDW levels were independently associated with hypertension and hyperhomocysteinemia, which may indicate that hypertension and hyperhomocysteinemia can induce platelet activation.

Platelets volume indexes and cardiovascular risk factors

Obesity, diabetes and hypertension are risk factors for cardiovascular diseases (CVD) because they promote a state of hypercoagulability. It is known that platelets play an important role in the development of atherosclerosis. Recent studies have evaluated platelet volume indexes (PVIs) in individuals with risk factors for CVD to better understand the platelet mechanisms involved in their development. The IVPs indirectly estimate platelet function and are easily obtained from automated hematology analyzers, which provide platelet counts, mean platelet volume (MPV), platelet distribution width (PDW) and the platelet-large cell ratio (P-LCR). The present study aims to review literature studies that investigated the association between PVIs and obesity, diabetes, and arterial hypertension, in order to evaluate its use as a potential subclinical marker of CVD. Studies have shown promising results for MPV, an index that allows for early detection of platelet activation and may be useful in identifying patients before the onset of CVD development so that preventive strategies can be implemented. The PDW, although evaluated by a smaller number of studies, also showed promising results. However, there is still a long way to go in order for the MPV and PDW to be used in clinical practice, since there is still a need for more epidemiological evidence, establishing reference values, and standardizing the way results are presented.