Frequency of Thrombocytopenia and Its Role in Predicting Mortality Among Patients with Sepsis

Abstract

Background

Sepsis is a life threatening disorder caused by systemic infection and commonly causes organ failure. The reduction of platelet count is also known as thrombocytopenia and is common among septic patients, its precise effect in predicting mortality among sepsis patients has not been clearly established and therefore further study is needed.

Aim is to determine the prevalence rate of thrombocytopenia among sepsis patients and its prognostic value in mortality prediction, and to determine thrombocytopenia as a useful tool to predict mortality risk in clinical practice.

Methodology

This was an observational type of study where 100 patients with sepsis were found at a tertiary care hospital. Demographic information, clinical variables, platelet counts, and patient outcomes were obtained. The platelet counts were classified as mild (100,000-149,000/µL), moderate (50,000-99,000/µL), and severe thrombocytopenia (less than 50,000/µL). Chi-square tests were used to compare platelet counts in non-survivors and survivors, and multivariate logistic regression was used to establish thrombocytopenia as an independent predictor of mortality. The age of the participants was 58.4 years (SD = 13.2). The main endpoint was in-hospital mortality.

Results
A total of 100 sepsis patients were included, with a mean age of 58.4 years and 65% males. Thrombocytopenia was present in 68% of patients, most commonly mild. Mortality increased with thrombocytopenia severity, reaching 68% in severe cases. Severe thrombocytopenia was an independent predictor of in-hospital mortality. Older age and ICU admission were also significantly associated with increased mortality, while hypertension was not an independent risk factor.

Conclusion

Thrombocytopenia is highly prevalent among sepsis patients and significantly associated with increased mortality. The severity of thrombocytopenia, particularly in severe cases, serves as an independent predictor of in-hospital mortality. Additionally, older age and ICU admission are significant factors linked to poorer outcomes.