What’s Platelet Inhibition?

Platelet inhibitors limit platelet functions to prevent blood clots and are used to treat thrombotic cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. They can cause hemorrhage, but the risk is low. Low-dose aspirin is commonly used for cardiovascular health, while prescription drugs include Plavix, Ticlid, Pletal, and Persantine. Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors are used during angioplasty to prevent clotting […]

What’s platelet count?

Platelets are small cells in blood that help with clotting. A blood platelet count can indicate medical conditions such as thrombocytopenia or thrombocytosis. Normal platelet counts range from 150,000 to 400,000 per microliter of blood. Platelets are tiny cells that are part of blood products and are extremely useful in helping blood clot. Their shapes […]

What’s platelet activation?

Platelets are small cells that respond to injury by clumping together and forming a protective layer to stop bleeding. Low platelet counts can cause difficulty in controlling bleeding, while high counts can lead to increased clotting. Platelet transfusions may be given in some cases. Platelet disorders can be treated with various methods. Medications can also […]

What’s a platelet assay?

A platelet test measures platelet function and can include multiple tests. It requires a blood sample and can determine platelet count, clotting time, aggregation function, adherence, clotting factors, and aspirin tolerance. Results are printed with normal ranges and values, and can help diagnose conditions and monitor ongoing ones. Rush orders are available at an additional […]

What’s a platelet factor?

Platelet factors are proteins that help blood clot and form scabs over wounds. They signal platelets to clump together and form clots, which stop bleeding and promote healing. Different types of platelet factors work together to promote clotting. Too much or too little platelet factor can cause problems, such as thrombophilia or haemophilia. Increased platelet […]

What’s Platelet Flow Cytometry?

Platelet flow cytometry is a laboratory test that examines platelet activity and concentration in a blood sample. It can be used for diagnosis, treatment assessment, and research. The test involves using a flow cytometer to identify particles in the sample and can be enhanced with specific tags to highlight certain proteins. Patients can discuss their […]

Platelet disorders: what are they?

Platelet disorders affect platelets, which are important for blood clotting and other bodily functions. There are two types: disorders related to platelet count and problems related to platelet function. Diagnosis involves blood tests and genetic testing, and treatment depends on the underlying cause. Some conditions can be managed, while others may require lifelong appointments with […]

What’s a platelet plug?

Hemostasis stops bleeding after a cut in the skin or blood vessel. Platelet plug is the second step, where platelets adhere to the damaged area, release granules, and become sticky to seal off the damage. Blood clotting follows to complete the process. Hemostasis is an involuntary bodily function intended to stop bleeding. It occurs in […]

What’s platelet transfusion?

Platelet transfusions are used to treat thrombocytopenia, a condition where there is a lower than normal level of platelets in the blood. The transfusion can be administered through an intravenous drip and each unit typically contains platelets from three to five donors or from one donor through apheresis. The treatment is prescribed for patients undergoing […]

Types of platelet disease?

Platelets prevent excessive bleeding by forming a barrier at wound sites, but platelet diseases can occur if they don’t work properly or if there aren’t enough. Thrombocytopenia is an abnormally low platelet count, while thrombocytosis is an overproduction of platelets. TCP and HUS occur when the immune system attacks platelets, while Von Willenbrand disease inhibits […]

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