Inverse relationship between platelet density and reactivity alterations at coronary angiography

This work investigates relationships between platelet density and reactivity. 21 individuals subject to coronary angiography were studied. Peak platelet density was analyzed using a newly developed electronic device. The apparatus measures light transmission through test tubes containing density-separated platelets, thus allowing an estimation of the platelet distribution in the gradient. A flow cytometry technique was used for determining platelet reactivity after stimulating with ADP. Platelet counts, mean platelet volumes, peak platelet density and platelet reactivity were determined immediately before (day 1) and 24 h after cardiac catheterization (day 2). For all parameters changes during the day of angiography were compared with platelet density alterations. The subjects were divided into two groups according to density changes at angiography. Group 1 individuals showed density alterations (i.e. day 2 - day 1 value) > or = -8 x 10(-5) kg/l. In contrast, group 2 subjects either displayed density changes < -8 x 10(-5) kg/l or grossly disturbed platelet density patterns on day 2. Before angiography both groups had similar platelet counts and volumes. Then platelet reactivity when stimulating with ADP did not differ significantly between the two groups. After angiography, the number of fibrinogen-positive cells when stimulating with ADP rose by 6 +/- 8% for group 2 patients. The corresponding figure for group 1 was -1 +/- 6%. The difference was significant (p = 0.01). No such relationships were found when comparing density alterations and changes of platelet counts and volumes. We conclude that in this study platelet density alterations at coronary angiography are inversely related to variations of platelet reactivity.