Platelet functions and activities as potential hematologic parameters related to Coronavirus Disease 2019 (Covid-19)

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Infectious Diseases
• Critical Care Medicine

Background:

• Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) lacks established laboratory markers for severity assessment.
• Platelet (PLT) count and related parameters are of clinical concern in COVID-19 patients.
• Existing studies suggest links between severe COVID-19 and coagulation abnormalities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the potential association between platelet parameters and COVID-19 severity.
• To highlight the role of platelet alterations in the hypercoagulable state of severe COVID-19.
• To emphasize the need for further research into platelet functions for improved disease management.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing studies identifying links between COVID-19 severity and coagulation parameters.
• Analysis of alterations in platelet count and related indices in severe COVID-19.
• Discussion of the implications of these findings for understanding disease pathogenesis.

Main Results:

• Severe COVID-19 cases are associated with specific coagulation abnormalities, including high D-dimer levels, prolonged prothrombin time, and low platelet counts.
• These hematological changes reflect a hypercoagulable state, potentially leading to microthrombosis in organs like the lungs.
• Platelet count and dynamic changes are emerging as potential indicators of disease severity.

Conclusions:

• Understanding platelet functions in COVID-19 is crucial for improving knowledge of disease pathogenesis and clinical management.
• Further investigation into advanced hematological parameters related to platelets is needed across diverse patient cohorts and disease stages.
• Enhanced understanding may lead to the development of more precise therapeutic strategies for COVID-19 patients.