Association between Immature Platelet Fraction and Mean Platelet Volume in Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction

Background: In recent years a clear association has been demonstrated between levels of immature reticulated platelets in the circulation and the occurrence of acute coronary syndromes. Limited data exists regarding the association between immature platelet fraction (IPF %) and mean platelet volume (MPV). Hence, the aim of the current study was to examine whether MPV is associated with IPF levels.

Methods: Fifty-five patients with acute myocardial infarction were enrolled. Four blood tests for IPF were taken: a. at baseline before coronary angiography; b. one day following angiography; c. at discharge; d. one month following the index event. IPF was evaluated by a Sysmex XE-2100 autoanalyzer, and IPF % were divided to low (≤3%) or high (>3%) IPF % groups. Association between MPV as measured on admission and IPF % levels was evaluated.

Results: Out of 55 patients (mean age 61.5±12.5 years), there were 9 (16%) women, 17 (31%) patients with diabetes mellitus, 30 (55%) were hospitalized with ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Mean IPF % was 5.64±4.1% and high IPF % was found in 38 (69%) patients. The high IPF % group was correlate with higher MPV as compared with the low IPF % group (10.3±0.6% vs. 11.5±1.0%, respectively, p<0.001)

Conclusions: Larger MPV appears to be associated with a higher level of immature platelets in the circulation and hence, MPV might be a good marker for higher level of IPF % when IPF test is not available. The clinical implications of these findings require further investigation.