Expert Reviewed By: Dr. Brandon Colby MD
Understanding Increased Mean Platelet Volume
Increased mean platelet volume (MPV) is a condition in which the average size of platelets in the blood is larger than normal. Platelets are small cell fragments that play a crucial role in blood clotting and wound healing. An elevated MPV can be indicative of various health conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and stroke. In recent years, researchers have discovered a link between genetic factors and MPV, paving the way for a better understanding of the condition and the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
Diagnosing Increased Mean Platelet Volume
Diagnosing increased MPV typically involves a blood test that measures the size and number of platelets in the blood. In some cases, doctors may also order additional tests to identify any underlying health conditions that could be contributing to the elevated MPV. Recent studies have shed light on the genetic factors that may influence MPV and its association with various health conditions.
Frailty in Diabetic Subjects during COVID-19 and Its Association with HbA1c, Mean Platelet Volume and Monocyte/Lymphocyte Ratio
A study found that HbA1c, MPV, and monocyte/lymphocyte ratio (MLR) could be surrogate markers of frailty in diabetic elderly during the COVID-19 outbreak. This suggests that increased MPV may be an important factor to consider in the management of diabetic patients, particularly during times of increased health risk.
Mean Platelet Volume and Its Genetic Variants Relate to Stroke Severity and 1-Year Mortality
Another study suggests that MPV is a marker of stroke severity, and the T>C variant of rs7961894 is independently associated with greater MPV in the acute phase of ischemic stroke and relates to decreased 1-year mortality after stroke. This finding highlights the potential of genetic testing in predicting stroke outcomes and guiding treatment decisions.
SNP in Human ARHGEF3 Promoter Is Associated with DNase Hypersensitivity, Transcript Level and Platelet Function, and Arhgef3 KO Mice Have Increased Mean Platelet Volume
A study found that a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the human ARHGEF3 promoter is associated with platelet function, and Arhgef3 knockout (KO) mice partially recapitulate the human phenotype. This discovery provides valuable insights into the genetic factors that may influence MPV and platelet function, helping to advance our understanding of the condition.
Increased Mean Platelet Volume in Familial Hypercholesterolemia
A study showed that MPV was increased in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia and was independently associated with total cholesterol level. This finding suggests that increased MPV may be a useful diagnostic marker in patients with this genetic disorder and could potentially guide treatment decisions.
Using Genetic Testing for Increased Mean Platelet Volume
Genetic testing can be a valuable tool in understanding, diagnosing, and managing increased MPV. By identifying specific genetic factors that may contribute to elevated MPV, doctors can better understand the underlying causes of the condition and develop targeted treatment strategies.
For example, genetic testing for the T>C variant of rs7961894 may help predict stroke outcomes and guide treatment decisions. Similarly, testing for the SNP in the human ARHGEF3 promoter can provide insights into platelet function and potentially inform treatment strategies for patients with increased MPV.
As our understanding of the genetic factors influencing MPV continues to grow, genetic testing is likely to play an increasingly important role in the diagnosis and management of this condition. By leveraging these advances in genetic research, doctors can provide more personalized care for patients with increased MPV and associated health conditions.
About The Expert Reviewer
Dr. Brandon Colby MD is a US physician specializing in the personalized prevention of disease through the use of genomic technologies. He’s an expert in genetic testing, genetic analysis, and precision medicine. Dr. Colby is also the Founder of and the author of Outsmart Your Genes.
Dr. Colby holds an MD from the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, an MBA from Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business, and a degree in Genetics with Honors from the University of Michigan. He is an Affiliate Specialist of the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG), an Associate of the American College of Preventive Medicine (ACPM), and a member of the National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC)