Incidence of Thrombocytopenia in Pregnant Females Coming to Lady Walingdon Hospital, Lahore

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Find out the incedence of thrombocytopenia in pregnant females coming to Lady Walingdon Hospital, Lahore

DURATION: 6 months after approval of synopsis From: 01-07-2018 to 31-12-2018

STUDY DESIGN: Descriptive analytical study.

METHODOLOGY: After approval from local ethical committee, 160 females meeting the criteria of inclusion were enrolled from the OPD of Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Lady Walingdon Hospital Lahore. Consent was obtained from the participants. Platelet counts were measured using blood samples taken from each pregnant woman. A sterile disposable dry needle and syringe were used to collect blood via anti-cubital vein with minimal stasis. EDTA anticoagulant tubes were used to dispense 3ml of blood. Thrombocytopenia was reported as present or absent according to the operational definition.

RESULTS: In this study, out of 160 cases 27.5% were between 18-25 years of age and 72.5% were between 26-35 years of age, average age was 28.63+3.39years, frequency of thrombocytopenia in pregnant females was recorded in 17.5%. As per effect modifiers like age, gestational age, parity and BMI, the thrombocytopenia found to be statistically insignificant (p->0.05).

CONCLUSION: In our community, thrombocytopenia during pregnancy is not uncommon, and it must be assessed by routinely examining the peripheral smear and platelet count in early gestation, as well as during the third trimester, to ensure early diagnosis, as most patients remain asymptomatic.

KEYWORDS: Pregnant females, third trimester, thrombocytopenia