Usefulness of the mean platelet volume

The mean platelet volume measurement can reflect changes in either the level of platelet stimulation or rate of platelet production. The controversy related to whether platelets change volume or density in the circulation is still not clearly resolved, and although the relationship between platelet number and size and megakaryocyte number, size, and ploidy have been well described, the factors that regulate this interaction are still poorly understood. Platelet volumes are frequently measured after being collected in EDTA and stored at room temperature in spite of the known artifacts that are induced by this type of specimen handling. Still, the MPV can be useful in selected clinical conditions. If platelet consumption in vascular disorders is associated with stimulated platelet production, however, then there is a need for further optimization of this technique. Proper method standardization and the development of more stable specimen handling conditions may allow the MPV to have broader clinical application in detecting and monitoring vascular disorders. Development of improved technique may currently be impeded by the ease with which highly artifactual measures can be now be obtained.