Platelet Aggregation Studies Using Texac Whole Picture Analysis

Platelet aggregation is a critical event in hemostasis and thrombosis, and therefore requires accurate measurement. Aggregometry, the most popular in vitro method for measurement of platelet aggregation, measures changes in light transmission as stimulated free platelets combine to form aggregates. However, it does not provide detailed information about the size and number of platelet aggregates and free platelets. The TEXAC image analyzer, using whole picture texture analysis, provides this information and is able to detect the presence of platelet aggregates in unstimulated and minimally stimulated conditions, which would otherwise be missed. Quantitative information may be of critical importance in the control of platelet behavior in patients with atherosclerotic and thrombotic disease.