Laboratory investigation of platelet function: a review of methodology

Abstract

Over the past decade interest in and knowledge about the role of platelets in the haemostatic process and in various pathological conditions has continued to grow. The scope of laboratory methodology to investigate platelet function in clinical haemorrhagic and thrombotic disorders in the specialised haemostasis unit has also proportionally widened. After highlighting the physiological processes of the role of platelets in the haemostatic mechanism this brief review comments critically on the available routine techniques used to study platelet function in patients who present primarily with a bleeding tendency.