Thrombocytopenia in Alcohol Dependence Syndrome: A Hospital-based Observational Study

Aim and background: Thrombocytopenia is a condition characterized by a decrease in platelet counts less than 1,50,000/L.Multiple studies have elicited the effect of alcohol on various blood parameters but its effect on platelets is often overlooked.We intend to estimate the prevalence of thrombocytopenia in alcohol dependence syndrome (ADS), to compare the platelet count at baseline with that of the 7th day of admission, to evaluate the association between platelet count with the severity of ADS, and co-morbidities in patients with ADS. Materials and methods: This is an observational study conducted in a tertiary care Medical College Hospital.We recruited 64 inpatients qualifying for ADS whose last intake of alcohol was within five days before admission.Severity of alcohol dependence questionnaire (SADQ) and Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol (CIWA-Ar) scale were administered, platelet count along with CBC was assessed during baseline, and only platelet count was assessed on the 7th day of admission.Statistical analysis paired sample t-test, ANOVA, Pearson's correlation were used.Results: The prevalence of thrombocytopenia at baseline was 18.8% which dropped to 9.4% on day 7 of admission following abstinence from alcohol.At baseline patients with liver disease had significantly lower platelet count than those without liver disease (Mean: 1,93,900/L vs 2,40,500/L, p: 0.031) but no statistically significant difference on 7th day (p: 0.8).Baseline platelet count showed negative correlation with age, duration of alcohol use. Conclusion:The prevalence of thrombocytopenia is high in patients with ADS.Clinical significance: Abstinence from alcohol can lead to normalization of platelet count even in patients with co-morbid liver disease.