Immature platelet fraction as a marker for thrombocytopenia
Research type
Research Study
Full title
An evaluation of Immature Platelet Fraction (IPF) as a marker in the indication of Thrombocytopenia.
IRAS ID
235798
Contact name
Randy Caluducan
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
North West Anglia NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 10 months, 31 days
Research summary
Thrombocytopenia is a reduction of platelet count below the expected range in a healthy individual. It is very vital for the laboratory results to ensure thrombocytopenia reflect a true reduction in platelet count before embarking on further diagnostic tests.Recently, a new automated measurement of reticulated platelets as Immature Platelet Fraction has been developed within the Sysmex XE-5000 (Sysmex, Kobe, Japan). The immature platelet fraction (%IPF) is a modern parameter that measure immature platelets (Reticulated Platelets) in peripheral blood. The structural parameter %IPF is currently classified as for research purposes. The IPF corresponds to the fraction (%) of immature platelets in the total platelet population (Sysmex 2008).The Sysmex XE – 5000 is a fully automated multi parameter haematology analyser used for in vitro analysis. It utilizes the power of fluorescent flowcytometry and hydrodynamic focusing technologies. Using a designed gating system the immature platelet fraction (IPF) is quantified in the reticulocyte/platelet channel (RET channel) employing upgraded software. There is a high clinical utility of the %IPF in the laboratory. Its usefulness relates the diagnosis and treatment of thrombocytopenia. The % IPF can be a sensitive measure for evaluating thrombopoietic recovery during chemotherapy, haematopoietic stem cell and bone marrow transplantation. Currently, thrombocytopenia can only be determined using the platelet count in the full blood count with the blood film morphology. The department has all the resources, analyser, reagents and competent Biomedical Scientist; the haematology laboratory is enthusiastic to carry out this project to confirm the hypothesis in the Design Study. New standard operating procedures will be introduced in the laboratory, if data analysis established the expected results. The new method can be incorporated in the protocols for clinicians to use for evaluating Thrombocytopenia. Therefore, better service will be extended to the patient in achieving quality healthcare.
REC name
London - Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
18/LO/1985
Date of REC Opinion
7 Nov 2018
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion