Can platelet count and mean platelet volume during the first trimester of pregnancy predict preterm premature rupture of membranes?

AIM: The aim of our study was to evaluate the values of platelet count and mean platelet volume (MPV) obtained from maternal serum during the first trimester to predict subsequent preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM).

MATERIAL AND METHODS: The records of 318 women with PPROM and 384 healthy controls in a single center between 2009 and 2013 were retrospectively evaluated. Platelet count and MPV values between 7 and 14 weeks of gestation were compared. Receiver-operator curve analysis was performed to identify the optimal platelet count and MPV cut-off levels predicting PPROM.

RESULTS: Compared with controls, women with PPROM had significantly increased levels of platelet count and significantly decreased levels of MPV in the first trimester (P < 0.001). The area under the receiver-operator curve was 0.642 for MPV and 0.579 for platelet count. The cut-off values of MPV ≤ 8.6 fL and platelet count ≥216 × 10(3) /μL predicted PPROM with a sensitivity of 58% and 65% and specificity of 62% and 44%, respectively.

CONCLUSION: MPV can be used as a more efficient predictor for an early diagnosis of PPROM than platelet count. However, further research combining other markers is needed to increase the efficiency of prediction.