Modified Technique for Measuring Platelet Aggregation

Abstract

The turbidimetric method of Bom is the current approach for assessing the aggregation behavior of platelets. It has been of modest practical value, due to difficulty in standardizing laboratory techniques for plasma preparation and inadequate quantification of the aggregation process. We report a new technique of sedimented platelet rich plasma (SPRP) preparation that reduces the irregularities caused by factors associated with procuring and preparing blood samples and permits a more flexible protocol for laboratory practice. We quantified results with a platelet aggregation score, which is calculated by multiplying the ratio of the height of the initial wave of aggregation to the maximum height of the aggregation pattern by the total area under the aggregation curve and by the ratio of the whole blood platelet count and the number of platelets in the sample. Comparative analysis of platelet aggregation scores (n = 95) obtained with both plasma preparation techniques using a paired t test demonstrated no statistical differences ( t = 1.368, p = 0.174). To demonstrate the application of this modified method to evaluation of antiplatelet agents, the effects of aspirin and aspirin combined with citric acid on platelet aggregation were studied in vitro. The antiaggregatory effect of aspirin combined with citric acid was dependent on the pH and on their molar ratio, and was greater than the effect of aspirin alone. The SPRP protocol with platelet aggregation scoring methodology could be a valid alternative for measurement of the platelets' propensity to aggregate and the effect of antithrombotic treatments. Key Words: Platelet aggregation— Aspirin—Citric acid.