Comparison of Platelet Functions, Plasma Proteins and Lipids in Filarial and Non-Filarial Edema Patients

Lymphatic filariasis results in chronic edema, pain, elephantiasis and disfigurement in humans. It was previously reported that platelet aggregation is inhibited in lymphatic filariasis patients, compared to healthy controls. However, it was not clear whether the inhibition was due to filarial parasite infection or due to the presence of edema. This study was planned to compare platelet functions, plasma proteins and lipids in filarial and non-filarial edema patients. Edema patients were tested for the presence of filarial antigens and antibodies in their blood and were grouped as filarial and non-filarial edema patients accordingly. Platelet aggregation, size distribution, platelet activation markers, plasma proteins and lipids were measured in collected blood samples. Results showed that platelet aggregation was significantly inhibited in filarial edema patients, compared to non-filarial edema patients. Soluble P-selectin and beta thromboglobulin showed significant positive correlation with each other only in non-filarial edema patients. Plasma total cholesterol was lower in filarial edema patients, and HDL was lower in only female filarial edema patients. Observations confirm that inhibition of platelet functions is due to filarial parasite infection, not merely due to the presence of edema. Results also indicate uncoupling and disturbances of platelet activation processes.