Rationale for antiplatelet agents in diabetic vascular disease.

Studies summarized in this paper indicate that some diabetics have increased sensitivity to platelet aggregating agents. The problem is in the platelet release reaction and may reflect increased synthesis of prostaglandins or their precursors. An interaction of plasma factor such as von Willebrand factor with platelets may also be involved. Based on these and other considerations, a prospective study on the use of aspirin and dipyridamole on diabetic lower extremity vascular disease is underway as a Veterans Administration Cooperative Study.