Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 2, 2026

Live-cell Imaging of Platelet Degranulation and Secretion Under Flow
Published on: July 10, 2017
PLATELETS AND THE SHWARTZMAN PHENOMENON
Abstract:
Studies are reported on the effect of immunologically induced thrombocytopenia upon the local and generalized Shwartzman phenomena. Intravenous injection of antiplatelet serum to rabbits produced profound but transient thrombocytopenia unaccompanied by significant changes in circulating leucocytes. Platelet antiserum alone given to rabbits prepared with thorotrast produced renal lesions characteristic of the Shwartzman reaction. Thrombocytopenia induced by platelet antiserum did not inhibit the cutaneous hemorrhagic lesion of the local Shwartzman phenomenon produced by sequential injections of endotoxin intracutaneously and intravenously. The implications of these observations in the pathogenesis of the local cutaneous and generalized Shwartzman reaction are discussed.
Related Concept Videos
Formation of the Platelet Plug
As the injured blood vessel contracts, endothelial cells undergo contraction, revealing collagen fibers in the basement membrane and underlying connective tissue. Furthermore, the plasma membrane of endothelial cells becomes adhesive, preparing the site for platelet adhesion. Platelets...
Structure and Function of Platelets
Platelets are continually replenished, circulating in the bloodstream for 9-12 days before being removed by phagocytes, primarily in the spleen. A microliter of circulating blood contains between 150,000 and 450,000 platelets, with...
Disorders of Hemostasis
Thromboembolic Disorders
Two factors primarily cause thromboembolic conditions.
Introduction to Hemostasis
The three phases of hemostasis involve many clotting factors present in plasma and several substances released by platelets and injured tissue cells. It is a fast, localized, and...
Anticoagulant Drugs: Low-Molecular-Weight Heparins
Clot Retraction and Fibrinolysis

