Platelet function testing in pediatric patients

Anne-Mette Hvas, Emmanuel J Favaloro

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

22 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Platelets play a key role in primary hemostasis and are also intricately linked to secondary hemostasis. Investigation of platelet function in children, especially in neonates, is seriously challenged by the volumes required to perform the majority of platelet function tests and due to the lack of standardization of these tests for use in children. Areas covered: The present review summarizes developmental hemostasis with a focus on the differences in platelet adhesion, activation and aggregation, between preterm neonates, full-term neonates, during childhood and in adults. Some of the most widely used platelet function tests are presented, including novel tests requiring only a small blood volume. Expert commentary: Currently available platelet function tests are limited as regards to investigation of neonates due to difficulties in obtaining adequate blood volume, poor standardization, lack of reference intervals for neonates and children, and an incomplete understanding of the functional phenotype of neonatal platelets, especially preterm neonatal platelets.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)281-288
Number of pages8
JournalExpert Review of Hematology
Volume10
Issue number4
Early online date02 Mar 2017
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Apr 2017

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