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Updated: May 11, 2026

Microfluidics in Assessing Platelet Function
Published on: November 8, 2024
Testing platelet function
Paul Harrison1, Marie Lordkipanidzé
1School of Immunity and Infection, University of Birmingham Medical School, Birmingham, UK. P.Harrison.1@bham.ac.uk
Platelet function tests have been traditionally used to aid in the diagnosis and management of patients with bleeding problems. Given the role of platelets in atherothrombosis, several dedicated platelet function instruments are now available that are simple to use and can be used as point-of-care assays. These can provide rapid assessment of platelet function within whole blood without the requirement of sample processing. Some tests can be used to monitor antiplatelet therapy and assess risk of bleeding and thrombosis, although current guidelines advise against this. This article discusses the potential utility of tests/instruments that are available.
Platelet function tests have been traditionally used to aid in the diagnosis and management of patients with bleeding problems. Given the role of platelets in atherothrombosis, several dedicated platelet function instruments are now available that are simple to use and can be used as point-of-care assays. These can provide rapid assessment of platelet function within whole blood without the requirement of sample processing. Some tests can be used to monitor antiplatelet therapy and assess risk of bleeding and thrombosis, although current guidelines advise against this. This article discusses the potential utility of tests/instruments that are available.
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