Erythrocytes and Platelets: A Critical Analysis of their Ontogenic Relationship through Automated Parameters

Introduction: Erythrocytes and platelets share an intimate development history, due to which special interest is centered on their relationship. Mature Red Blood Cells (RBCs) and platelets show a similar physiological rhythm, and are concurrently involved in numerous pathologic states.

Aim: To identify subtle relationships between various RBC and platelet parameters with an objective to analyse if a linear correlation co-exists between and among them in physiological/pathological states.

Materials and methods: A prospective analysis of 1250 EDTA blood samples was conducted. The five RBC parameters (RBC count, HCT, MCV, RDW, Hb) and four platelet parameters (platelet count, PCT, MPV, PDW) obtained from each case were statistically analysed for linear dependence.

Results: A statistically significant direct linear relationship was found between RDW with platelet count and PCT. A statistically significant inverse linear relationship was noticed between the following parameters: i) HCT with platelet count and PCT; ii) MCV with platelet count and PCT; iii) Haemoglobin and platelet count.

Conclusion: A linear correlation, either direct or inverse, was seen among various parallel RBC and platelet parameters.