A comparative study of platelet indices in stable versus acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major global health problem. A strategy for prevention and early treatment of COPD exacerbations is essential to better address the disease. Hence, the study was undertaken to compare the various platelet indices in patients with acute exacerbation versus stable COPD and study the relationship of these indices with the severity of COPD exacerbation to aid in better patient management. Methodology: The study was conducted at the hospitals attached to Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute from November 2017 to May 2019, on patients with stable and acute exacerbation of COPD. Brief history with relevant investigations was performed. Platelet indices were compared between the two groups. The relationship between the platelet indices and the severity of acute exacerbation of COPD was also studied. Results: Among the platelet indices, there was a statistical difference in the mean values of mean platelet volume (MPV) and platelet distribution width (PDW) in the two groups. The MPV and PDW values were 8.85 fL and 7.91 fL and 15.94% and 17.14%, respectively, during the stable period and exacerbations of COPD, respectively. Furthermore, in our study, it was found that there was no significant association between the degree of hypoxia and the platelet indices. Conclusion: Among the various platelet indices, our study suggests that the MPV reduced and PDW increased in patients with acute exacerbation when compared to stable COPD. Furthermore, our study did not show any significant correlation between the platelet indices and the severity of COPD as determined by the degree of hypoxia.