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Updated: Jun 26, 2026
Dynamic Multiparameter Platelet Function Assessment Using a Capacitive Biosensor
Published on: May 2, 2025
Methods for the measurement of platelet function
1Center for Platelet Function Studies, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA.
Insights
Monitoring antiplatelet activity is crucial for cardiovascular disease patients. This review compares various platelet function tests to assess their effectiveness in predicting thrombosis and bleeding risks.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Hematology
- Clinical Pathology
Background:
- Platelet function tests are essential for managing antiplatelet therapy in cardiovascular disease.
- Monitoring antiplatelet activity helps predict risks of thrombosis and bleeding.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and compare various methods for measuring platelet function.
- To evaluate the utility of these tests in monitoring antiplatelet therapy and predicting clinical outcomes.
Main Methods:
- The article discusses multiple platelet function measurement techniques.
- These include aggregometry, impedance aggregometry, and specific assays like VerifyNow and Plateletworks.
- Other methods evaluated involve flow cytometry markers (P-selectin, activated glycoprotein IIb/IIIa, leukocyte-platelet aggregates), TEG Platelet Mapping, Impact cone and plate analyzer, and Platelet Function Analyzer-100.
- Biochemical markers such as serum thromboxane B2 and urinary 11-dehydro thromboxane B2 are also considered.
Main Results:
- Different tests vary in sample volume, use of whole blood, shear stress simulation, point-of-care capability, technical requirements, and cost.
- The choice of test depends on specific clinical needs and available resources.
Conclusions:
- A range of platelet function tests are available, each with distinct advantages and disadvantages.
- Selecting the appropriate test is critical for effective patient management in cardiovascular disease.
Abstract:
This article discusses the advantages and disadvantages of methods for the measurement of platelet function. The focus is on tests that can be used to monitor antiplatelet activity in the setting of cardiovascular disease and potentially predict thrombosis and bleeding. The tests described are platelet aggregometry; impedance aggregometry; VerifyNow (Accumetrics, San Diego, CA); Plateletworks (Helena Laboratories, Beaumont, TX); platelet surface P-selectin, platelet surface-activated glycoprotein IIb/IIIa, and leukocyte-platelet aggregates; TEG Platelet Mapping system (Haemoscope, Niles, IL); Impact cone and plate(let) analyzer (DiaMed, Cressier, Switzerland); Platelet Function Analyzer-100 (Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics, Inc., Deerfield, IL); phosphorylation of vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein; serum thromboxane B(2); and urinary 11-dehydro thromboxane B(2). Some of the factors that differentiate these tests are sample volume requirements, the use of whole blood, the presence of shear, point-of-care status, need for a technician, and expense.
