# Comparative Evaluation of Platelet Indices in Clinical and Culture-Positive Neonatal Sepsis: A Prospective Observational Study

## TL;DR

This study shows that platelet indices like MPV and PDW can help detect neonatal sepsis early, especially in areas with limited resources.

## Contribution

The study demonstrates the potential of MPV and PDW as early, accessible biomarkers for neonatal sepsis in clinical and culture-positive cases.

## Key findings

- MPV and PDW were significantly higher in both culture-positive and clinical sepsis groups.
- Platelet indices could support early diagnosis when combined with clinical and lab findings.
- The study highlights the utility of MPV and PDW in resource-limited settings.

## Abstract

Background: Neonatal sepsis is among the significant causes of morbidity and mortality, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Blood culture, the diagnostic gold standard, is limited by delayed results and low sensitivity. Mean platelet volume (MPV) and platelet distribution width (PDW) may offer early, accessible biomarkers.

Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate the diagnostic utility of platelet indices, i.e., MPV and PDW, in clinical and culture-positive neonatal sepsis.

Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted on 170 neonates with suspected sepsis admitted to the NICU at MGM Hospital, Aurangabad. Participants were categorized into clinical (n = 88) and culture-positive (n = 82) sepsis groups. Platelet parameters were analyzed.

Results: Of the 170 neonates enrolled, 82 (48.2%) had culture-positive sepsis, while 88 (51.8%) were categorized as clinical sepsis. MPV and PDW were significantly higher in both the culture-positive group and the clinical sepsis group.

Conclusion: MPV and PDW are significantly elevated in both the culture-confirmed neonatal sepsis and the clinical sepsis group. Platelet indices may serve as supportive diagnostic markers in resource-limited settings. Their integration with clinical and laboratory findings could enhance early diagnosis.