Platelets and White Blood Corpuscles' Indices for the Prediction of Premature Rupture of Membranes

Abstract

Introduction and aim: Premature rupture of membranes (PROM) is a common condition that is usually associated with adverse maternal and fetal outcome. Early identification is crucial to institute proper management strategies. The current study aimed to evaluate the role of platelets and white blood cells (lymphocytes and neutrophil) in prediction of PROM

Methodology: The study included 100 pregnant females. All were subjects to full clinical evaluation. Then vaginal examinations were completed to inspect for the active flowing of amniotic fluid from the cervix. A transabdominal ultrasound was done to confirm gestational age and estimate amount of amniotic fluid and turbidity. Complete blood cell count and differential count of leucocytes was performed and specific ratios were calculated.

Results: We have two groups, the study (PPROM) and females without PROM (control group). White blood cell, platelets, and neutrophils were significantly increased, while lymphocytes and monocytes were significantly decreased in the study than the control group.  Mean platelet volume (MPV) and amniotic fluid index (AFI) were significantly reduced in the study than the control group (8.37±0.49, 4.39±0.65 vs. 10.04±0.68 and 11.20±1.18 respectively). However, platelet lymphocyte and neutrophil lymphocyte ratio were significantly increased in the study than control group (139.88±9.34, 5.58±0.70 vs. 127.50±4.70 and 4.06±0.54 respectively). The predictors of PPROM were AFI (η=0.619) followed by mean platelet volume (η=0.254) and finally NLR (η=0.075).

Conclusion: Blood cell count indices are useful indicators in screening for possible development of PPROM. In addition, MPV and NLR as useful predictors of PPROM. The availability, simplicity and low cost of such tests increased its value as a potential indicators for development of PPROM.