This review explores the emerging role of platelet indices in tuberculosis (TB) as potential biomarkers for diagnosis, disease monitoring, and understanding pathogenesis. Platelet count, mean platelet volume, platelet distribution width, and plateletcrit have shown significant alterations in TB patients compared to healthy controls and those with other respiratory conditions. These changes are attributed to the inflammatory response, direct platelet activation by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and involvement in granuloma formation. Recent studies have investigated the diagnostic and prognostic value of platelet indices in TB, including their potential for differentiating TB from other respiratory infections, monitoring treatment response, and assessing disease severity. However, challenges such as lack of specificity and measurement variability need to be addressed. The review also highlights the multifaceted role of platelets in TB pathogenesis, including immune modulation and antimicrobial functions. Future research directions include large-scale validation studies, exploration of combined biomarker panels, and investigation of platelet indices in pediatric TB and TB-diabetes comorbidity. As our understanding of platelet-TB interactions grows, these indices may contribute to more personalized and effective TB management strategies.
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