Characteristics, diagnosis, and treatment of inherited platelet disorders in mammals

M uch progress has been made in the last 10 years re- lated to the diagnosis of inherited intrinsic platelet disorders in animals with respect to clinical, functional, biochemical, and molecular characteristics. Owing to lack of awareness among veterinary practitioners, these disorders may be misdiagnosed and inappropriately managed. The purpose of the information reported here is to provide a brief description of platelet anatomy and function, followed by descriptions of methods of evaluation of platelet function, specific platelet disorders, and methods of diagnosis. Information related to case management and treatment is also provided.