Platelets - From function to dysfunction in essential thrombocythaemia

Platelets are an important component of blood. The main biological role of platelets is to respond to vascular injury and promote thrombus formation to prevent bleeding. However, we now know that platelets also have additional functions in a variety of processes such as immunity, inflammation, coagulation, atherogenesis and tumour metastasis. Platelet disorders commonly lead to defects in haemostasis. Of particular interest is the myeloid proliferative disorder, essential thrombocythaemia (ET). In ET the increased number of platelets leads to an increased risk of blood clot formation and subsequent thrombohaemorrhagic complications. Here we provide a general review of platelet function and activation, as well as more detailed information on the dysfunction of platelets in patients with ET.