BACKGROUNDNeonatal sepsis is a disease process, which represents the consequences of systemic response to bacteria entering the blood stream during the first 28 days of life. Platelet count (PLT) and indices, including mean platelet volume (MPV), platelet distribution width (PDW) and Platelet larger cell ratio (P-LCR) are considered as markers of production rate and platelet activation. They are readily available via blood tests. However, their prognostic value in neonatal sepsis has not been fully clarified and several studies reported contradictory results. This study evaluated the changes of platelet count and indices in neonatal sepsis. METHODSThis study was performed on 20 neonates with culture proven sepsis and 20 neonates with the similar age and weight but without any infectious disease served as the control group from February 2013 to June 2017 in the west of Iran. PLT, MPV, PDW, P-LCR and other infection markers (white blood cell count [WBC], erythrocyte sedimentation rate [ESR], and neutrophil percentage were also determined. This data was compared between patients and control group. RESULTSIn sepsis group, MPV, PDW and P-LCR were significantly increased (p= 0.024, p= 0.006 and p= 0.005 respectively), but WBC, Neutrophil percentage and PLT were not significantly different compared to controls. There was no significant difference in the platelet count and indices between Gram-negative and Gram-positive sepsis. CONCLUSIONSDiagnostic value of platelet indices is higher than that of WBC and neutrophil percentage. Therefore, platelet indices as inexpensive and easily available tests can be routinely performed for all neonates suspected to be in sepsis.

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