Platelet activation during myocardial ischaemia: a contributory arrhythmogenic mechanism.

Experimental and clinical observations of the involvement of platelets in the pathophysiology of myocardial ischaemia indicate the importance of interactions between these formed elements and the heart. The aim of this review is to outline evidence linking platelet activation, myocardial ischaemia and infarction, and to present evidence for a link between platelet activation, arrhythmogenesis and sudden death. A brief review of platelet physiology and pharmacology is provided, with a review of the cardiac electrophysiological effects of ischaemia and the electrophysiological effects of platelet-derived substances. The concept that platelet activation during myocardial ischaemia is a contributory arrhythmogenic mechanism is discussed.