Arte?-Fact? - Platelets - Calendar 2007 month 11

Author(s): H. Diem (1), R. Hinzmann (2)
Institution(s): (1) Würmtal-Labor, 82131 Gauting; (2) Sysmex Europe GmbH, Norderstedt - Germany
References: The Sysmex Scientific Calendar 2007
Photos and text: Heinz Diem, MD; text: Rolf Hinzmann, MD, PhD
Last change of this image collection: 2007/01/01

Giant platelets or anisocytosis of platelets are helpful diagnostic criteria: In the case of thrombocytopenia they often indicate consumption of platelets. In thrombocytosis, however, they might indicate a myeloproliferative syndrome. Hence, platelets artificially enlarged by prolonged storage are disturbing and must be avoided.

Inconspicuous number and size of platelets in a normal person.

The same blood sample as above after one day of storage of the EDTA blood: Obvious anisocytosis of the platelets.

Accumulation of platelets on granulocytes in the presence of EDTA (= platelet satellitosis). In vitro, this effect can lead to pseudo-thrombocytopenia.

Thrombocytosis, anisocytosis of the platelets and giant platelets in a patient suffering from essential thrombocythaemia (ET). (Also, please note the profound poikilocytosis of the erythrocytes.)