Platelet function testing: Current practice among clinical centres in Northern Europe.

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Clinical Diagnostics
• Medical Practice Variation

Background:

• Platelet function tests are crucial for diagnosing inherited platelet function defects (IPFD).
• Acquired platelet dysfunction due to drugs or comorbidities must be ruled out before testing.
• Standardized diagnostic approaches are essential for accurate IPFD assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To survey and identify current practices for platelet function testing across Northern European clinical centers.
• To assess the harmonization of diagnostic protocols for inherited platelet function defects in the region.

Main Methods:

• A survey questionnaire was distributed to 14 clinical centers in six Northern European countries.
• Data collected included preanalytical procedures, diagnostic work-up components, and molecular genetic testing availability.
• The study captured practices serving approximately 29.5 million people.

Main Results:

• Significant variability exists in diagnostic work-up, with only 42.8% of centers being comprehensive treatment centers.
• Bleeding assessment tools and family history are commonly used, but structured preanalytical instructions are less frequent (35.7%).
• Platelet aggregometry is universal, but other methods like flow cytometry (71.4%) and molecular diagnostics (50%) show varied adoption.

Conclusions:

• The current practices for diagnosing IPFD in Northern Europe are highly variable.
• Harmonization of diagnostic strategies is urgently needed, referencing international registers like EUHASS and guidelines from ISTH and EHA.
• Standardized protocols will improve consistency and accuracy in IPFD diagnosis and management.