Clinicopathological Spectrum of Functional Platelet Disorders Diagnosed Using Light Transmission Aggregometry

Platelet function tests (PFT) are performed using a standalone platelet aggregometer or automated coagulation analysers. This study analyses the clinico-pathological profile of patients presenting with abnormal bleeding which were diagnosed using the principle of light transmission aggregometry (LTA).

Sixty patients suspected to have functional platelet abnormalities, were analysed. PFT was performed using Sysmex CS-2400.

Sixty patients presenting with abnormal bleeding were evaluated. Symptomatic patients were 70%(n = 42) with most common symptom being purpura. Thrombocytopenia was seen in 27%(n = 16) and 12%(n = 7) showed macrothrombocytopenia. Prolonged bleeding time was observed in 25%(n = 15) and 17%(n = 10) showed decreased clot retraction. Hereditary thrombocyopathia was diagnosed in 32%(n = 22) and 13%(n = 8) with acquired thrombocytopathias. Glanzmann thrombasthenia was diagnosed in 10%. Bernard-Soulier and Harris-platelet syndrome in 7%(n = 4) each. There was one case (2%) of Grey-platelet syndrome. Resistance to antiplatelet drugs was observed in 8%(n = 5). Abnormal platelet function due to chronic kidney disease, antihypertensive drugs, pregnancy and chronic myeloid leukemia were diagnosed in 2% each.

PFT performed using an automated LTA on a coagulation analyzer was less labour intensive, rapid, required less sample volume and platelet count. The incorporation of PFT's in the investigative profile of patient who present with abnormal especially mucocutaneous bleeding is highly recommended.

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12288-025-02006-x.