Correlation of Mean Platelet Volume in Patients With Cardiac Syndrome X in Indian Population

Platelets play a pivotal role in the development of atherosclerotic lesions, plaque destabilization and atherothrombosis. The methods of testing platelet activity can be time-consuming, expensive and technically difficult. Unlike more expensive or timeconsuming methods of assessing platelet function, the determination of platelet size by quantification of Mean Platelet Volume (MPV), using automated haemograms, is simple and inexpensive. "Cardiac syndrome X" characterized with 1. Angina or angina-like chest pain, 2. ST segment depression that can be induced by treadmill exercise testing, 3. Normal coronary arteriography. As cardiac syndrome X and angina pectoris caused by typical obstructive coronary heart disease should be distinguished from each other for effective treatment. Although there has not been a clear explanation of the exact pathophysiological mechanism underlying cardiac Syndrome X, studies are suggestive that coronary micro-circular abnormalities and endothelial dysfunction play a role in the aetiology of the disease. Atherosclerosis and endothelial vasomotor dysfunction have been suggested as possible contributing factors. There are limited datas in literature to compare the MPV in cardiac syndrome X. This study was designed to compare MPVs of patients with Cardiac syndrome X, patient with CAD and of normal controls.