Discriminative value of platelet size indices for the identification of the mechanism of chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia

Context: A biomarker for discriminating mechanisms of chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia (CIT) (i.e. increased platelet destruction and decreased platelet production) would be valuable in managing treatment. Objective: We explored the discriminating value of platelet size indices for this purpose in a population of adult oncology patients. Materials and methods: Mean platelet volume (MPV) and platelet distribution width (PDW) were compared between patients with (i) thrombocytopenia possibly due to increased platelet destruction; (ii) thrombocytopenia possibly due to decreased platelet destruction; and (iii) no thrombocytopenia. Results and conclusions: We obtained negative results, suggesting that these indices are not useful for discriminating different CIT mechanisms.