Platelet density and size in inflammatory bowel disease

• Published in: Thrombosis and haemostasis Vol. 75; no. 4; p. 560
• Main Authors: Järemo, P, Sandberg-Gertzen, H
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Germany 01-04-1996
• Subjects: Case-Control Studies; Cell Size; Colitis, Ulcerative - blood; Crohn Disease - blood; Humans; Platelet Count
• ISSN: 0340-6245
• DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1650321

The present study investigates platelet density and mean platelet volume (MPV) in active inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
27 patients with IBD (18 ulcerative colitis and 9 Crohn's disease) were compared to 12 healthy volunteers. 18 subjects had active disease. Platelet counts and mean platelet volume (MPV) were determined. Thereafter, platelets were separated according to density on a linear preformed Percoll gradient. A computerized device was employed for scanning transmission variations and thus the platelet distribution in the gradient and the platelet peak were identified.
Subjects with active IBD had greater platelet density (p = 0.02) and lower MPVs (p < 0.001). These findings may indicate augmented platelet granule content. The study also demonstrates that a low MPV is associated with active IBD.