[Morphometric analysis of erythrocyte aggregates in vitro: pharmacological application with buflomedil]

Erythrocyte aggregation is usually evaluated through indirect measurements such as the sedimentation rate and rheometric measurements of aggregation and disaggregation thresholds. The aim of this study was a preliminary evaluation of a morphometric approach of aggregates in vitro. A sample of blood (on EDTA) was examined under the microscope, and a picture with magnification X 640 was obtained after stabilization of the cellular structure. The digital image was analyzed with a home made dedicated software that allows the measurement of the cellular density and the evaluation of several shape parameters. Ten samples obtained from different donors were analysed within one hour after blood withdrawal and 24 hours later (preservation temperature: 4 degrees C), with and without adjunction of Buflomedil (4 microg/ml). Results showed an important anti-aggregant effect of Buflomedil administrated in these conditions, both on fresh and preserved blood (p<10(-3)). These results illustrate the potential interest of a morphometric approach to erythrocyte aggregation. They show new pharmacological properties of Buflomedil administered in vitro, which have to be confirmed with a therapeutic administration of the compound.