113 Maternal and Umbilical Platelet Indices at the Time of Delivery

Abstract

A variable platelet count without obvious etiologic factors is often observed in newborns. In this study we evaluate the platelet count (plt) and the platelet indices in umbilical venous blood of full term, healthy newborns. We also investigate the relationship of platelet indices with several clinical parameters. Methods: Platelet count (plt-m, plt-u) and platelet indices: Mean Platelet Volume (MPV-m, MPV-u), Platelet Distribution Width (PDW-m, PDW-u) and Plateletcrit (Plcr-m, Plcr-u) in 50 paired maternal and umbilical venous specimens were determined at delivery. The maternal age, blood pressure, serum glucose and the mode of delivery were recorded. The gestational age, birth weight, length, and the 1st minute Apgar score were documented as well. Results: The mean (sd) and the p value of the platelet parameters (maternal vs. umbilical) were determined: plt-m :234±69, (range 114–306) vs. plt-u: 271±57, (range 113–274), p=0.001; MPV-m: 8.7±0.1.1 vs. MPV-u: 7.2±0.5, p<0.001; PDW-m:17.1±0.7 vs. PDW-u: 16.3±0.5, p<0.001; Plcr-m:0.2±0.05 vs. Plcr-u:0.19+0.04, p=0.3. A significant relationship was demonstrated between umbilical platelet count and maternal blood pressure (BP): Systolic BP: r=0.26, p=0.05, Diastolic BP: r=0.26, p=0.05. Associations between platelet indices and the other clinical and laboratory parameters were found to be insignificant. Conclusions: The umbilical platelet count was significantly higher than the simultaneous maternal values. However, the MPV and PDW were significantly higher in maternal specimens. Importantly, a significant relationship was demonstrated between umbilical platelet count and maternal blood pressure.