Frequency of Low Platelet Count in Third Trimester among Patients with Pre-Eclampsia

Abstract

Objective: To determine the frequency of low platelet count in the third trimester (weeks 29-41 of gestation) among pregnant women with pre-eclampsia.

Methodology: This cross-sectional study was performed at the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Sheikh Zayed Hospital, Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan from February 2025 to July 2025. Women aged 18 to 45 years presenting with pre-eclampsia in a third trimester singleton pregnancy were enrolled through non-probability consecutive sampling. Demographic and clinical data along with severity of pre-eclampsia were recorded. Platelet count was measured on complete blood count from a 3 mL venous blood sample and low platelet count was defined as <150×10⁹/L. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.

Results: Among 167 women, the mean age was 29.8±6.4 years, and mean gestational age was 34.9±3.4 weeks. Low platelet count was found in 34 (20.4%) women. Women aged 31-45 years had higher odds of low platelet count than those aged 18 to 30 years (61.8% vs. 36.1%; OR:2.9, 95% CI:1.3-6.2; p=0.007). Hypertension was significantly associated with low platelet count (44.1% vs. 24.8%; OR:2.4, 95% CI:1.1-5.2; p=0.026). Severe pre-eclampsia was associated with lower platelet count and more frequent thrombocytopenia (p<0.001).

Conclusion: Low platelet count was a frequent finding among women with pre-eclampsia in the third trimester and was closely linked to severe disease.