Mean platelet volume (MPV) and red blood cell distribution width coefficient of variation (RDW_CV) as prognostic markers in community-acquired pneumonia in children: a cross-sectional study

Abstract Background Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a major global health threat for children, causing numerous hospitalizations and deaths. CAP is a leading cause of mortality in children under five and results in millions of hospital admissions each year. Identifying reliable prognostic markers is crucial. Mean platelet volume (MPV) and red blood cell distribution width coefficient of variation (RDW_CV) are accessible and cost-effective options for prognosis assessment. This study investigates MPV and RDW_CV as prognostic markers in children with CAP. Methods This cross-sectional study included 150 children aged 1–15 years diagnosed with CAP upon initial examination and admitted to the hospital. CAP diagnosis was based on clinical symptoms, physical examination, and/or radiographic findings, with hospitalization criteria set for CAP in children. CAP severity was assessed using the Clinical Respiratory Score, categorizing patients into mild, moderate, and severe groups. MPV and RDW_CV were compared among these groups. Results Among the patients, 71 (47.3%) were girls, and 79 (52.7%) were boys. The average hospitalization duration was 6.24 ± 3.82 days, with a median of 5 days. Disease severity distribution was 58 (38.7%) mild, 54 (36.0%) moderate, and 38 (25.3%) severe. Both RDW_CV and MPV were higher in severe cases and in children hospitalized for more than 10 days (P