Simple, rapid, and automated method for detection of hyperaggregability of platelets using a hematology analyzer

AbstractEstimation of hyperaggregability of platelets is important for diagnosis and prevention of vascular events. We have developed and evaluated a simple and rapid method for detection of a hyperaggregable state of platelets by using an Abbott CELL‐DYN® 4000 hematology analyzer. Citrated blood samples were collected from 62 patients with chronic cerebral infarction (CCI), of whom 19 patients were treated with ticlopidine, and from 9 healthy subjects. Platelet clumps were detected in the scatter plots for white blood cell populations with the hematology analyzer. Platelet clumps were positive in 20 of 43 (46.5%) CCI patients who were not treated with anti‐platelet agents but not at all in 9 healthy subjects and in 19 CCI patients treated with ticlopidine. The detection of platelet clumps in citrated blood by the hematology analyzer was proved useful in detecting a platelet hyperaggregability in CCI patients. This method is simple, rapid, and automated and thus should be suitable for routine clinical use for monitoring indications and the efficacy of anti‐platelet drugs. Am. J. Hematol. 72:282–283, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.