Can Mean Platelet Volume Value Be Used as Inflammation Marker in Children with Familial Mediterranean Fever?

Abstract

Aim:Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) is disrupted response to inflammation by the organism as a result of mutations in the MEFV gene. It has been shown that the mean platelet volume could be used as a marker in many inflammatory diseases. In this study, it was aimed to determine inflammation by observing the changes in the mean platelet volume in the complete blood count.Materials and Methods:The study included 570 children diagnosed with the FMF based on the Tel-Hashomer Criteria. We also included 73 healthy children as a control group. Demographic features, results of genetic analyses, complete blood count parameters, mean platelet volume levels, and C-reactive protein results were evaluated retrospectively. Data of the patients were recorded separately based on the acute attack and attack-free periods under treatment.Results:The mean platelet volume was found to be 8.4±2.4 fL in the attack period and 9.5±1.9 fL in the attack-free period. The mean platelet volume was significantly lower in patients with an attack period compared to the patients at an attack-free period. Leukocyte count and C-reactive protein were statistically significantly higher in the attack period compared to the attack-free period.Conclusion:The mean platelet volume decreases in patients with FMF with the effect of inflammation during the attack period. We think that it is important to consider mean platelet volume while evaluating the blood count.

Keywords

• familial mediterranean fever
• inflammation
• mean platelet volume