The importance of mean platelet volume and red cell distribution width in acute pulmonary embolism

Abstract

Introduction: Elevated mean platelet volume (MPV) and red blood cell distribution width (RDW) has been associated with adverse outcomes of pulmonary embolism (PE). The aim of this study is to evaluate the level of MPV and RDW in patients with acute PE and to determine their diagnostic value in these patients. Materials and methods: 108 consecutive patients with acute PE and 79 controls were evaluated retrospectively. The MPV, RDW, D-Dimer, brain natriuretic peptide, cardiac troponin-I and arterial blood gases were reviewed and echocardiography findings in patients with PE were evaluated. Results: The MPV and RDW levels in the PE group were significantly higher than in the control group (p<0.001, p=0.006). The MPV and RDW levels were higher in PE patients with right ventricular dysfunction (RVD) compared with PE patients without RVD (p=0.026, p<0.001). The higher MPV and RDW levels were determined in non-survivors than survivors (p<0.001; for both). The optimal cut-off value of MPV and RDW for the diagnosis of PE was 8.25 fl (sensitivity 72%; specificity 43%) and 13.45% (sensitivity 79%; specificity 52%) respectively. Moreover the optimal cut-off value of MPV and RDW for the determining of RVD was 8.35 fL (Sensitivity 76%; specificity 50%) and 14.05% (Sensitivity 79%; specificity 50%) respectively. Conclusion: Our results suggest that a simple baseline determination of MPV and RDW in the first time application of patients may be a reliable indicator for the diagnosis of acute PE and to determine of RVD in these patients.