What are Platelet Dysfunctions?

Platelet Dysfunctions
Figure 2. Contribution of the CXCR4/SDF-1 pathway to Stx pathophysiology. (A) Normal blood vessel. (B) Underlying HUS pathophysiology is detachment of the endothelium and exposure of the underlying basement membrane, subendothelial edema, increased platelet adhesion accompanied by thrombocytopenia, and red blood cell (RBC) fragmentation. Gb3 on the surface of the endothelium binds Stx. Among the changes stimulated by Stx is upregulation of endothelial CXCR4 and increased blood SDF-1 levels. (C) Inhibition of CXCR4/SDF-1 interaction using AMD3100 (plerixafor) reduces Stx-mediated platelet adhesion to the endothelium in vitro and improves thrombocytopenia in vivo. Adapted with permission from Lippincott Williams and Wilkins/Wolters Kluwer Health: Current Opinion in Nephrology and Hypertension,6 copyright 2012. New insights into Shiga toxin-mediated endothelial dysfunction in hemolytic uremic syndrome. Virulence. Not Altered. CC.

Platelet dysfunctions are a group of bleeding disorders in which the platelets do not function appropriately, leading to bleeding.

What is the Pathology of Platelet Dysfunctions?

The pathology of platelet dysfunctions is:

-Etiology: The cause of platelet dysfunctions is a problem in the platelets themselves or to an external factor that alters the function of normal platelets.

-Pathogenesis: The sequence of events that lead to platelet dysfunctions depends on the underlying issue which may include defects to the platelets, defects to platelet receptors, or medication related alterations of platelet activity.

-Morphology: The morphology associated with platelet dysfunctions depends on the underlying cause which may show giant platelets, structural anomalies of platelets, megakaryocyte abnormalities, or alterations of the granules within platelets.

How do Platelet Dysfunctions Present?

Patients with platelet dysfunctions typically are either males or females present in the age range of 6-80 years old. The symptoms, features, and clinical findings associated with platelet dysfunctions typically include increased bruising, nosebleeds, gum bleeding, and prolonged bleeding times.

How are Platelet Dysfunctions Diagnosed?

Platelet dysfunctions are diagnosed using special tests that include:

  • Bleeding time
  • Platelet function assay
  • Platelet aggregation testing
  • Platelet electron microscopy
  • Genetic testing

How are Platelet Dysfunctions Treated?

Platelet dysfunctions are treated based on the underlying cause.

What is the Prognosis of Platelet Dysfunctions?

The prognosis of platelet dysfunctions is good if properly managed.

Tags:
Last updated on May 24, 2022