Increase in platelet indices potential predictors of poor glycemic control in diabetes, suggests research

Key Findings

• The study proved that the diabetic group demonstrated significantly higher platelet indices in comparison with the control, healthy group. In particular, significant differences were found in the case of platelet distribution width (PDW), mean platelet volume (MPV), platelet large cell ratio (PLCR), and plateletcrit (PCT) counts of the diabetic group as compared to control (P < 0.001).

• The significant correlation of the platelet indices with poor glycemic control was established wherein the PDW, MPV, PLCR, and PCT levels were found to be significantly high in diabetic patients with poor glycemic control when compared with the well-controlled diabetic patients and non-diabetic volunteers.

• The study found that with a cut-off value of 15.75 fL and AUC of 0.803, PDW was a good predictor for poor glycemic control. MPV cut off was at 12.25 fL while AUC was at 0.774, PLCR cut off was at 36.3% while AUC stood at 0.775, and PCT had a cut-off of 0.24% with AUC at 0.761. All the indices were found to be good indicators of bad glucose regulation in diabetic patients.

This study reveals higher and statistically significant platelet indices in diabetic patients and unfolds the fact that such markers may predict poor glycemic control. Conclusion Routine screening of platelet indices can be a part of the follow-up and management process for the type-2 diabetic patients. Early identification of high-risk groups by simple, non-invasive tests may improve disease management and prevent complications.

Reference:

Regassa, D. A., Berihun, G. A., Habtu, B. F., Haile, W. B., Nagaash, R. S., & Kiya, G. T. (2024). Platelet indices as predictors of poor glucoregulation in type 2 diabetes mellitus adults at Bishoftu General Hospital, Ethiopia. World Journal of Diabetes, 15(9), 1889–1902. https://doi.org/10.4239/wjd.v15.i9.1889