Reference intervals for platelet aggregation assessed by multiple electrode platelet aggregometry

Abstract

Introduction: Analyses of platelet aggregation in hirudin whole blood using Multiplate® was validated. Reference intervals for the most commonly used agonists were established, and the association between platelet aggregation, age, gender and haematological values was analysed.

Material and methods: We included 121 healthy individuals to establish reference intervals and six healthy individuals for evaluation of the day-to-day variation. Platelet aggregation was evaluated on hirudin whole blood employing Multiplate® induced by arachidonic acid, ADP, collagen and ristocetin (RISTOlow and RISTOhigh). Measurements of haematological values were performed employing Sysmex K-4500.

Results: We found no association between platelet aggregation and age (p>0.57 for all agonists, except RISTOlow: p=0.05). Platelet aggregation was significantly higher in women compared to men for all agonists (p<0.0003), except RISTOlow (p=0.05). A reference interval is presented as 95% confidence interval suitable for any age and both sex. Day-to-day variation was <11% for all agonists except for RISTOlow. No association was found between platelet aggregation and haematocrit or red blood cell count after adjusting for age and gender except for RISTOhigh. A positive significant association was found between platelet count and platelet aggregation (p<0.04). Finally, a significant positive association was found between platelet aggregation and white blood cell count for all agonists (p<0.05) except RISTOlow and RISTOhigh (p>0.05).

Conclusion: Reference intervals for platelet aggregation in healthy individuals (age: 17 to 66 years) were established in hirudin whole blood measured by Multiplate® employing the most commonly used agonists.