Photometric platelet aggregation test III: a new tool for the detection of enhancet platelet aggregation.

In clinical investigation on ehnanced platelet aggregation the changes of the various tests with time after blood sampling must be considered. The photometric PAT III for the evaluation of spontaneous aggregation showed enhanced aggregation in a high percentage of patients with vascular disease, and prospective data obtained so far make it likely that enhanced aggregation is a risk factor for thrombosis. More prospective studies are necessary to prove whether continuously enhanced spontaneous platelet aggregation is indicating progressive atherosclerosis.