PREVALENCE OF GESTATIONAL THROMBOCYTOPENIA IN ANTENATAL WOMEN FOLLOWING COVID-19 INFECTION AT A TERTIARY CARE CENTER IN EASTERN UTTAR PRADESH- AN OBSERVATIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Thrombocytopenia during pregnancy, particularly gestational thrombocytopenia, can complicate maternal and fetal outcomes. Recent evidence suggests a potential link between COVID-19 infection and hematological abnormalities, including thrombocytopenia. This study aims to assess the prevalence and severity of gestational thrombocytopenia among antenatal women with a history of COVID-19 infection in Eastern Uttar Pradesh.

Methods: An observational study was conducted at Government Medical College Azamgarh from January to December 2023, involving 1,000 antenatal women screened for thrombocytopenia. Participants with confirmed COVID-19 infection via RT-PCR or rapid antigen test were included. Data on platelet counts, obstetric outcomes, and complications were collected and analyzed.

Results: Of the 1,000 women screened, 250 (25%) exhibited thrombocytopenia, with 200 diagnosed as having gestational thrombocytopenia. The prevalence of thrombocytopenia was influenced by underlying conditions such as pregnancy-induced hypertension and infections. The majority had mild to moderate thrombocytopenia, with only a small fraction experiencing severe forms. Most women delivered vaginally, with a low incidence of complications such as postpartum hemorrhage and need for transfusions.

Conclusion: Gestational thrombocytopenia is prevalent among pregnant women with prior COVID-19 infection, predominantly presenting as mild to moderate. While severe complications are rare, close monitoring is essential to optimize maternal and fetal outcomes. Larger multicenter studies are warranted to further elucidate the relationship between COVID-19 and thrombocytopenia during pregnancy.