Platelet function testing: from routine to specialist testing

Abstract

Platelets have many functions within the haemostatic system, and when these actions are diminished for whatever reason, a bleeding tendency can manifest. Unravelling the reason(s) for this bleeding can be complex due to the multiple roles platelets perform. This review seeks to explain each level of platelet testing moving from those performed at local hospital laboratories to those performed by specialist centres and university research departments. It will examine the testing available and discuss when to move on to additional testing.

Keywords:

• Platelet
• function
• aggregation
• analysis
• analytical techniques

Acknowledgments

The author would like to thank the editor for requesting this review. Dr Gary Moore for continued mentoring, support and friendship. Tom Phillips and Martin Nkau for proof reading and eternal optimism.