The PFA-100: analysis and interpretation of a platelet function measurement.

The PFA-100 is a laboratory test designed to measure platelet function. Adequate platelet function depends upon the platelet's ability to adhere to the site of endothelial injury, activate surface receptors to attract other platelets and aggregate or clump together to form a platelet plug. This process is necessary to stop bleeding but may be harmful if it causes occlusion of a vessel. Platelet altering medication therapy is widely used in the prevention and treatment of coronary artery disease, peripheral arterial occlusive disease, and cerebrovascular ischemia. The PFA-100 provides the clinician with valuable information about platelet function. This information is helpful in determining the therapeutic effectiveness of antiplatelet medications, assisting in evaluating risk of bleeding and identifying primary platelet dysfunction.