Platelet activation as a novel mechanism of atherothrombotic risk in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Abstract

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by pulmonary and systemic inflammation. In particular, the clinical course of this disease typically leads to periodic exacerbation involving inflammatory response and both respiratory and cardiovascular symptoms. Even though the exact mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of COPD and its chronic and acute inflammation have not yet been fully understood, many studies have been highlighting the role of the endothelium, platelets (PTL) and other circulating blood cells. PLT are crucial for hemostasis and, once activated by a number of different factors, will mediate endothelium adhesion, and the rolling and activation of other circulating cells, such as neutrophils, which become a cause of tissue damage during the inflammatory process. The aim of this review is to highlight the onset of activation, thrombus formation and inflammatory amplification with particular regard to the COPD patients and the course of their acute exacerbations.

Keywords::

• acute exacerbation
• chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• inflammation
• platelet activation

Financial & competing interests disclosure

The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending or royalties.

No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.