Evaluation of Platelet Indices as Biomarkers in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

BACKGROUND: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is linked to abnormal platelet function and heightened activation, which leads to complications in blood vessels. Platelet indices are gaining recognition as significant markers of platelet function. AIM: Examine platelet indices in individuals with type 2 diabetes and to investigate their relationship with blood sugar levels and complications. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 220 participants – 110 diabetics and 110 healthy controls. Fasting blood sugar (FBS), random blood sugar (RBS), postprandial blood sugar (PPBS), HbA1c, and platelet indices were analyzed using an automated hematology analyzer. Data were compared using Student’s t -test and Pearson’s correlation coefficient. RESULTS: Mean platelet volume (MPV) was significantly higher in diabetics (12.2 ± 1.7 fL) than controls (8.0 ± 0.3 fL, P < 0.0001). Platelet distribution width (PDW) (14.34 ± 2.30 fL vs. 9.77 ± 0.47 fL, P < 0.0001) and platelet large cell ratio (P-LCR) (33.78 ± 7.0% vs. 17.56 ± 1.47%, P < 0.0001) were also elevated, while platelet count showed no significant difference ( P = 0.132). MPV correlated with RBS ( r = 0.25, P = 0.007), PDW ( r = 0.24, P = 0.01), and P-LCR ( r = 0.20, P = 0.033) correlated with HbA1c. Diabetics with complications had higher MPV (13.31 ± 1.54 fL) than those without (11.64 ± 1.48 fL, P < 0.0001). CONCLUSION: Platelet indices – MPV, PDW, and P-LCR – were significantly increased in Type 2 DM and correlated with poor glycemic control and complications. These readily available, low-cost parameters may help identify patients at higher risk for vascular complications. Further longitudinal studies are needed to confirm their prognostic value.