Platelet-mediated pulmonary hypertension: reduction by platelet inhibition.

Altering the platelet behavior with sulfinpyrazone or heparin--probably by inhibiting the platelet release reaction--reduces the emboli-induced pulmonary hypertension to the same extent as platelet depletion. Evaluation of platelet function in human pulmonary microembolism and consideration of substances which minimize or prevent platelet effects seems to be warranted on the basis of these experiments.