Precision and Reliability of Platelet Function Tests on Daily Antiplatelet Agent Therapy

By Kelley Luedke • November 5, 2014

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Anticoagulation protocols used during mechanical circulatory support call for titration of antiplatelet agents. A recent study published in Clinical Chemistry by Mayo Clinic representatives (first author Brad Karon, M.D., Ph.D.) compared the precision and reliability of five platelet function tests in healthy volunteers and donors on daily antiplatelet therapy to distinguish their efficacy for titrating antiplatelet therapy.*

The study assessed arachidonic acid-induced platelet function by light transmission aggregometry (LTA), multiplate impedance aggregometry, VerifyNow, and platelet mapping by thromboelastography (TEG PM), in addition to ADP-induced platelet function by the same methods and flow cytometry in 40 healthy volunteers and 10 to 13 volunteers on daily aspirin and/or clopidogrel therapy.

The results indicated TEG PM is least suited to monitor effects of antiplatelet agents. Further, multiplate impedance aggregometry was the only method to demonstrate an acceptable reliability coefficient among healthy volunteers and donors on both aspirin and clopidogrel therapy.

Read the full study for more information.

*Additional Mayo Clinic authors include Christopher Koch; Amy Wockenfus; Randall Miller; Ravi Lingineni; Rajiv Pruthi, M.B.B.S.; Dong Chen, M.D., Ph.D.; and Allan Jaffe, M.D.

Kelley Luedke

Kelley Luedke is a Marketing Channel Manager at Mayo Clinic Laboratories. She is the principle editor and writer of Insights and leads social media and direct marketing strategy. Kelley has worked at Mayo Clinic since 2013. Outside of work, you can find Kelley running, traveling, playing with her kitty, and exploring new foods.