Platelet Aggregation in Whole Blood - Studies with a Platelet Counting Technique - Methodological Aspects and Some Applications

C Falcon; J Arnout; J Vermylen

doi:10.1055/s-0038-1646608

Thrombosis and Haemostasis, Table of Contents

Thromb Haemost 1989; 61(03): 423-428
DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1646608

Original Article

Schattauer GmbH Stuttgart

Platelet Aggregation in Whole Blood - Studies with a Platelet Counting Technique - Methodological Aspects and Some Applications

C Falcon

The Center for Thrombosis and Vascular Research, University of Leuven, Belgium

,

J Arnout

The Center for Thrombosis and Vascular Research, University of Leuven, Belgium

,

J Vermylen

The Center for Thrombosis and Vascular Research, University of Leuven, Belgium

› Author Affiliations

Abstract

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Summary

We describe a method for measuring platelet aggregation in whole blood by single platelet counting. The importance of a low stirring speed (100 rpm) to obtain agonist-specific aggregation is stressed. Despite this low stirring speed, the sensitivity to agonists equals that of the turbidometric technique in platelet-rich plasma. The optimal concentration of formaldehyde for fixing the aggregates, the effects of storage times and anticoagulant are studied. Applicability to the study of platelet function inhibitors or of inherited platelet function disorders is illustrated. It is concluded that this technique, used under the appropriate conditions, combines the advantage of measuring platelet aggregation in a more physiologtc environment with the advantages of the turbidometric technique such as high sensitivity.

Keywords

Platelet aggregation, whole blood - Platelet aggregation, platelet counting

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References

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