Platelet Count and Platelet Indices in Pregnant Saudi Women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Aim: To evaluate the differences in platelet count and platelet indices in the second trimester of pregnancy between pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and apparently healthy pregnant women. Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed with 60 pregnant women with GDM (cases) and 60 apparently healthy pregnant women (controls). The study groups were matched in terms of baseline characteristics; complete blood counts were done to determine platelet counts and platelet indices. Results: The mean total platelet count, MPV, PDW and P-LCR were significantly increased in pregnant women with GDM compared to the apparent healthy pregnant women (P value = 0.00). MPV was well correlated with PDW and P-LCR, and PDW was directly correlated with P-LCR. Conclusion: The high platelet count and the significant changes in platelet indices on CBC testing in the second trimester of pregnancy were most probably due to the presence GDM.