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Review
. 2023 Sep;49(6):600-608.
doi: 10.1055/s-0042-1757898. Epub 2022 Nov 16.

Platelet Function Testing: Update and Future Directions

Julie Brogaard Larsen  1   2 , Anne-Mette Hvas  3 , Johanne Andersen Hojbjerg  1   2
Affiliations
Review

Platelet Function Testing: Update and Future Directions

Julie Brogaard Larsen et al. Semin Thromb Hemost. 2023 Sep.

Abstract

Platelets play a key role in maintaining normal hemostasis and are also recognized as partners in the development of arterial thrombosis. Today, platelet function testing is used for very different clinical purposes; first, for investigation of platelet dysfunction in acute bleeding and diagnosis of platelet disorders in patients with long-lasting bleeding tendency, and second, for testing the efficacy of antiplatelet therapy in patients with increased thromboembolic risk. Moreover, it has been discussed whether platelet function testing can be used for prediction of bleeding risk (e.g., prior to major surgery). Ever since light transmission aggregometry was introduced, laboratories around the world have worked on testing platelet function, and during the last decades a wide range of new methods has emerged. Besides the clinical utility of platelet function testing, the present review summarizes the test principles and advantages and disadvantages of the different methods, depending on the purpose for which it is to be used. A critical step in investigation of platelet function is the preanalytical factors that can substantially affect test results. Therefore, this review also provides an overview of preanalytical variables that range from patient-related factors such as smoking, coffee, and exercise prior to blood sampling to selection of anticoagulant, needle gauge, and time from blood sampling to analyses. Finally, this review outlines further perspectives on platelet function testing for clinical practice and for research purposes.

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Conflict of interest statement

J.A.H. has no conflicts of interest to disclose. J.B.L. and A.-M.H. have no conflicts of interest pertaining to the present article, but have the following general disclosures within the past 36 months: J.B.L. has received speaker's fees from Bristol-Myers Squibb and travel support from Bayer. A.-M.H. has received speaker's fee from CSL Behring and an unrestricted research grant from CSL Behring.

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