Does colorectal cancer influence platelet activation?

Many investigators have given evidence that platelets play a significant role in tumour growth and neoplastic metastases. On the other hand, neoplastic cells of various tissues are capable of platelet activation. The aim of the present study was to evaluate platelet activation in 26 patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) in relation to clinical advancement and surgical treatment. beta-thromboglobulin concentration was determined using the ELISA assay and PLT count was evaluated with Technicon H3 System. Blood for BTG concentrations was collected three times--before surgery (A0), three days (A1) and twelve days (A2) after surgery. Results show that patients with CRC have a significantly higher BTG concentration in all groups (A0, A1, A2) versus control group (C). There was no significantly differences in BTG concentration between patients with metastases and without metastases to lymph nodes and distant organs. Our investigations confirm platelet activation in the course of colorectal cancer irrespective of clinical advancement. Surgical treatment applied in these patients significantly affects morphological and functional parameters of blood platelets.