Analysis of Post-Sample Collection EDTA Effects on Mean Platelet Volume Values in Relation to Overweight and Obese Patient Status.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Mean platelet volume (MPV) may be a useful biomarker for platelet activation in obese patients. However, storage duration and use of anticoagulant K3-ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) may interfere with these measurements. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to measure the variability of MPV in obese patients following exposure to EDTA. METHOD: A total of 160 patients were divided into 3 groups according to body mass index (BMI; normal <25 kg/m2; overweight 25-30 kg/m2; obese >30 kg/m2). Blood was collected in sterile tubes containing K3-EDTA. Blood cell counts were obtained using the CELL-DYN Ruby system immediately and 1, 2, and 3 h after collection. RESULTS: MPV was found to be directly proportional to BMI. With the addition of EDTA, MPV was increased in the first hour after collection; MPV then decreased to levels that were lower than initial baseline measurements. CONCLUSIONS: K3-EDTA use alters platelet volume. The time from collection to measurement should be standardized to reduce MPV value variance. MPV should be determined within 1 h of collection to avoid anticoagulant use-related interference.