The role of Aspergillus fumigatus antigens in blood coagulation and platelet function.

The effects of Aspergillus fumigatus antigens on platelet function of rabbits was studied. A. fumigatus antigens produced spontaneous and irreversible aggregation of platelets. Aspirin, indomethacin or lidocaine did not block the antigen-induced aggregation. However, no aggregations occurred when complement depleted plasma was used. No differences were noted between the strains used. Our findings show that soluble Aspergillus antigens can cause platelet aggregation in vitro, possibly via a complement dependent pathway. The likely implications of these findings in clinical situations are discussed.