Relation of augmented platelet reactivity to the magnitude of distribution of atherosclerosis.

The extent of luminal involvement of atherosclerotic vascular disease and platelet reactivity portend subsequent cardiovascular events. This study was designed to determine whether platelet reactivity correlates with the extent of the territorial distribution of vascular disease. Blood was obtained from 130 patients who had known atherosclerotic vascular disease categorized as being in > or =1 of the following territories: coronary artery disease (CAD; n = 89), cerebrovascular disease (n = 36), and peripheral arterial disease (n = 61).

Pericardial Diseases.

Pericardial diseases have multiple clinical presentations with acute and chronic complications. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment markedly enhance the chance of complete resolution of the hemodynamic complications of pericardial disease. The treatment of patients with acute idiopathic pericarditis is mainly to alleviate symtoms of chest pain.

Biphasic effects of hemodialysis on platelet reactivity in patients with end-stage renal disease: a potential contributor to cardiovascular risk.

Background: Cardiovascular disease is rampant in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), and increased platelet reactivity may contribute. This study is designed to determine effects of hemodialysis in patients with ESRD on platelet reactivity per se.

Methods: Platelet reactivity was determined by flow cytometry in 36 patients with ESRD undergoing hemodialysis.