Evaluation of Platelet Count and Morphology in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus at Federal Medical Centre, Makurdi, North Central Nigeria

This study evaluates platelet count, mean platelet volume (MPV), and morphological characteristics in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) compared to non-diabetic controls at the Federal Medical Centre, Makurdi, Benue State, located in Nigeria's North Central geopolitical zone. Platelet activation in T2DM is a recognised contributor to the prothrombotic state and macrovascular complications that define the disease's morbidity profile. Using a case-control design, 100 confirmed T2DM patients and 100 age- and sex-matched controls were recruited from the endocrinology outpatient clinic. Platelet parameters were determined using an automated haematology analyser. Peripheral blood films were examined for platelet clumping and giant platelets. Fasting blood glucose and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels were obtained from clinical records. Results indicated significantly higher MPV and platelet distribution width in diabetic patients compared to controls, consistent with platelet hyperactivation. A significant negative correlation was observed between platelet count and HbA1c levels. Platelet clumping was more frequent on films from diabetic patients with poor glycaemic control. The findings highlight the haematological consequences of chronic hyperglycaemia and suggest that platelet indices could serve as useful haemostasiological markers in T2DM management. Routine platelet index monitoring is recommended alongside glycaemic control protocols at the Federal Medical Centre Makurdi. Keywords: platelet count, mean platelet volume, type 2 diabetes, thrombosis, Makurdi.