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Platelet function testing by flow cytometry Volume 9, issue 5, Septembre-Octobre 2003

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Authors
Laboratoire central d‘Hématologie, CHU Robert‐Debré, avenue du Général‐Koenig, 51092 Reims Cedex, France

Flow cytometry provides multiple possibilities to examine platelet functions with much more accuracy than conventional aggregometry. Indeed, it allows the identification and, in some cases, the quantification of the main components of platelets. As in aggregometry, the platelet challenge to classical platelet agonists can be assessed. Furthermore, the different activation states of platelet receptors, along with signal transduction, can be analyzed. Largely employed by research laboratories, flow cytometry is more and more frequently used by clinical laboratories, partly as a result of the availability of new tools for standardization and calibration. It is, however, worthwhile recalling that the control of pre‐analytical processes is mandatory for the optimal use of the technique. The application fields in hematology are wide: investigation of thrombocytopenia, (toward a new?), definition of myeloproliferative‐associated platelet disorders, platelet activation states, heterotypic complex detection in miscellaneous benign and malignant hematologic diseases, evaluation of new antiplatelet agents, approach of the platelet transfusion quality. The aim of this text is to overview flow cytometry potential to approach platelet function and to point out the improvements to be achieved for the optimal use of the technique.