Early Platelet Indices as Biomarkers of Deep Vein Thrombosis and Prognostic Markers in Mechanically Ventilated ICU Patients

The study will be conducted at the Critical Care Unit of Assiut University Hospital and will recruit 100 mechanically ventilated patients. Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) remains a major challenge in ICU patients due to the difficulty in clinical detection. Conventional tools such as Doppler ultrasound and D-dimer testing have significant limitations, creating a need for cost-efficient, accessible biomarkers. MPV and PDW are promising markers of platelet activation and variability, both of which play central roles in thrombus formation. These indices are routinely included in complete blood count (CBC) tests, making them widely accessible.

The study will explore whether elevated MPV and PDW values at ICU admission and during follow-up are associated with higher incidence of DVT and increased ICU mortality. Patients will undergo baseline investigations, followed by repeated platelet measurements every 48 hours until ICU discharge or death. Doppler ultrasound assessments will be done on Day 5-7 or earlier if symptoms suggest thrombosis.

Inclusion criteria

• Adults ≥18 years

Admitted to ICU at Assiut University Hospital

Mechanically ventilated for ≥48 hours

Exclusion criteria

• Known hematological malignancy or platelet disorders

Recent platelet transfusion within 7 days

Known pre-existing deep vein thrombosis

Previous anticoagulation treatment prior to ICU admission

Pregnancy