REVIEWLaboratory investigation of platelet function

Advancement in the understanding of the mechanisms of platelet activation and the development of new techniques for studying platelet function have created the challenge of a wide range of options for investigating patients with suspected platelet disorders and for studying the effects of anti-platelet drugs. Novel classes of anti-platelet drug, such as adenosine diphosphate (ADP) receptor and glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptor antagonists, are being developed and introduced into routine clinical practice. This review presents an overview of current techniques for laboratory investigation of platelet function in the light of these recent advances.