Investigation of mean platelet volume as a predictor of acute versus chronic immune thrombocytopenic purpura in children: An exploratory analysis

Abstract

Current difficulty remains in predicting acute versus chronic immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) in children at the time of diagnosis. The purpose of this exploratory retrospective study was to determine the relationship between mean platelet value (MPV) and initial platelet count at time of diagnosis on prediction of acute versus chronic ITP among pediatric patients. When odds ratios were calculated, initial platelet count less than 10,000/μl was the only statistically significant predictor of acute ITP (i.e., case resolution). MPV < 8 fl was not a statistically significant predictor of acute ITP, although clinical trends suggested that those with acute ITP had lower MPV at time of diagnosis. This exploratory study does suggest that multi-center prospective study designs are needed for further study to describe if there is a relationship between MPV in determining acute versus chronic ITP. Adequately predicting acute versus chronic ITP at diagnosis could have numerous implications for children and families as they prepare for treatment and help nurses deliver patient-centered interventions.