Correlation of platelet indices with microvascular complications in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: an analytical cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Objective: To compare platelet indices between T2DM patients with and without microvascular complications and to evaluate their correlation with diabetic retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy. Study Design: Cross-sectional Observational study. Setting: Department of General Medicine, Federal Government Polyclinic Hospital, Islamabad. Period: April to December 2025. Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study of 220 T2DM patients (110 with microvascular complications, 110 without) was conducted at a tertiary care hospital in Islamabad, Pakistan. Platelet indices were measured on an automated hematological analyzer. Independent samples t-test and Spearman's rank correlation were used for analysis. Results: MPV (13.41 ± 2.10 vs. 12.00 ± 1.89 fL), PDW (16.81 ± 2.73 vs. 15.24 ± 2.67%), and P-LCR (28.66 ± 7.00 vs. 24.00 ± 6.71%) were significantly higher in the complication group (all p < 0.001). Spearman's correlation confirmed significant positive associations for MPV (ρ = +0.343), PDW (ρ = +0.283), and P-LCR (ρ = +0.309; all p < 0.001). Platelet count showed no significant differences or correlations. Conclusion: MPV, PDW, and P-LCR are significantly elevated and positively correlated with microvascular complications in T2DM. These routinely available, low-cost indices may serve as practical adjuncts for microvascular risk stratification, particularly in resource-constrained settings.