Methods for the Measurement of Platelet Function

This article discusses the advantages and disadvantages of methods for the measurement of platelet function. The focus is on tests that can be used to monitor antiplatelet activity in the setting of cardiovascular disease and potentially predict thrombosis and bleeding. The tests described are platelet aggregometry; impedance aggregometry; VerifyNow (Accumetrics, San Diego, CA); Plateletworks (Helena Laboratories, Beaumont, TX); platelet surface P-selectin, platelet surface–activated glycoprotein IIb/IIIa, and leukocyte–platelet aggregates; TEG Platelet Mapping system (Haemoscope, Niles, IL); Impact cone and plate(let) analyzer (DiaMed, Cressier, Switzerland); Platelet Function Analyzer-100 (Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics, Inc., Deerfield, IL); phosphorylation of vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein; serum thromboxane B₂; and urinary 11-dehydro thromboxane B₂. Some of the factors that differentiate these tests are sample volume requirements, the use of whole blood, the presence of shear, point-of-care status, need for a technician, and expense.