Evaluation of Red Cell Distribution Width and Platelet Indices in Children with Chronic Heart Disease

Background: Platelets play a key role in the development and progression of cardiovascular diseases. Also red cell distribution width (RDW%) & platelet indices are a good predictor of clinical outcomes. Purpose: Study the relationship between RDW%, platelets count, mean platelet volume (MPVfl) and platelet distribution width (PDWfl) in children with congenital heart disease (CHD) or rheumatic heart diseases (RHD). Subjects and Methods: The study was carried on 151 children diagnosed as CHD or RHD selected from pediatric department of Al-Zahraa University Hospital and National Heart Institute. They were aged from 6 months to 12 years. Another 80 apparently healthy children were taken as controls. Complete blood count and echocardiography examination were evaluated for all participants. Results: The mean value of RDW% was increased in CHD and RHD than controls, RDW% higher in cyanotic CHD (CCHD) (either decompensated or compensated) than acyanotic CHD, and in decompensated RHD than compensated RHD with more than one valve affection. The mean platelets count were decreased in cyanotic than acyanotic CHD, platelets count were increased in decompensated than compensated RHD either with one valve or more than one valve affection. The mean values of MPV and PDW were increased in decompensated CHD, but it decreased in decompensated RHD. Conclusion: The RDW%, MPV and PDW considered as simple markers in the follow up of patients with CHD or RHD for early detection of serious complication.