Can mean platelet volume and red blood cell distribution width show disease activity in rheumatoid arthritis?

AIM

To evaluate the relationship between mean platelet volume (MPV) and red cell distribution width (RDW), and disease activity in rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

PATIENTS & METHODS: Hundred RA and 100 controls were included.

RESULTS

MPV and RDW were higher in RA (p < 0.0001). The cut-off levels of RDW and MPV were 14.8 and 10.4. Patients with RDW >14.8 had higher Disease Activity Score 28 (DAS28; p = 0.002) and pain score (p = 0.0007). RDW was positively correlated with DAS28 and pain. But, DAS28 and pain were not different between patients with MPV >10.4 and <10.4.

CONCLUSION

MPV and RDW were significantly higher in RA. RDW and MPV were similar to erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein to indicate inflammatory activity. RDW was correlated with pain and DAS28, but MPV was not associated with them.