Platelets and Vascular Risk: An Option for Treatment

Epidemiological studies have linked platelet hyperactivity with an increased risk of vascular events. Even more convincing is the evidence from appropriately designed clinical trials showing that antiplatelet agents decrease the risk of vascular events (e.g. myocardial infarction, MI and stroke). These findings are compatible with the known thrombotic action of platelets. A considerable limitation in platelet research is the absence of a reliable, universally accepted marker of platelet activity. Therefore, it is difficult to reliably identify the ‘high risk patient’ and/or evaluate the efficacy of any administered treatment other than by calculating event rates over a period of time. This review will focus on the preventive aspects of antiplatelet intervention while also briefly considering the assessment of platelet hyperactivity and the mechanisms involved in platelet-induced thrombosis.