Platelet Indices ( Platelet Count - Mean Platelet Volume - Platelet Distribution Width ) in Decompensated Post Hepatitic Liver Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis is an advanced liver disease characterized by fibrosis and alteration in hepatic architecture with the development of structurally anomalous nodules . Ascites is a condition in which pathological collection of fluid occurs within the peritoneal cavity mainly because of portal hypertension. It is a major complication of liver cirrhosis, The appearance of ascites in cirrhotic patients indicates a poor prognosis , Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis is a severe infection, commonly occurring in cirrhotic ascitic patients.

Platelets are attributed to preserve hemostasis. Yet, recently, there has been growing recognition that they also play an essential role in inflammatory and immune response. Platelets release prothrombotic and proinflammatory agents and participate in the induction and advancement of vascular and inflammatory disorders . Larger-sized platelets contain many granules, and are therefore more efficient in their hemostatic and proinflammatory actions . This is why the mean platelet volume (MPV) and platelet distribution width (PDW) are worth considering as potential tests for platelet function and activation .

The MPV and PWD can be calculated using almost all automated hematology analyzers. The MPV indicates the average platelet size in femtoliters. The PDW, reflecting homogeneity of platelet size, is calculated from the MPV by the equation (SD of platelet volume divided by MPV×100) or the distribution width at 20% frequency .