Frequency of Thrombocytopenia in Septic Neonates Admitted to Nursery Section of Pediatric Unit, DHQ Dera Ismail Khan

Thrombocytopenia in Septic Neonates Admitted to Nursery Section of Pediatric Unit

Abstract

Neonatal sepsis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality, often complicated by thrombocytopenia, which increases the risk of bleeding and worsens prognosis. Reported frequencies of thrombocytopenia in septic neonates vary widely, and local data are limited.  Objectives: To determine the frequency of thrombocytopenia in septic neonates and its association with clinical and laboratory parameters. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Paediatrics, DHQ Hospital, Dera Ismail Khan, over six months. A total of 110 septic neonates were enrolled. Demographics, clinical presentations, and laboratory findings were recorded. Blood samples were analyzed for platelet count, white blood cell count, C-reactive protein (CRP), and blood cultures. Data were analyzed using SPSS Version 25, with chi-square and Mann-Whitney U tests applied. Logistic regression identified predictors of thrombocytopenia, with p<0.05 considered significant. Results: Thrombocytopenia was found in 69.1% of septic neonates. Early-onset sepsis was significantly associated with thrombocytopenia (p=0.032), while blood culture results, bacterial pathogen type, CRP, and White Blood Cells (WBC) count were not. Mechanical ventilation showed a significant association (p=0.033), and thrombocytopenic neonates had higher mortality (p=0.053). Logistic regression identified mechanical ventilation (p=0.047, OR=0.386) as a significant predictor, while early-onset sepsis showed borderline significance (p=0.056, OR=2.489). Conclusions: It was concluded that thrombocytopenia is common in septic neonates, with early-onset sepsis and mechanical ventilation as key risk factors. Routine platelet monitoring in critically ill neonates is essential for timely intervention.