Are platelets required for blood clotting?

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SUMMARY

Platelets play a crucial role in blood clotting by forming an initial plug during primary hemostasis, which is then stabilized by fibrin during secondary hemostasis. The activation of platelets is triggered by the release of von Willebrand factor from damaged blood vessel walls. In blood clotting disorders, while clotting time is prolonged, disorders specifically affecting platelets do not alter this time due to the distinct mechanisms involved in hemostasis. Both primary and secondary hemostasis are essential for the formation of a stable clot.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of primary and secondary hemostasis
  • Knowledge of the coagulation cascade
  • Familiarity with von Willebrand factor and its role in hemostasis
  • Basic comprehension of prothrombin time (INR) measurement
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the role of von Willebrand factor in platelet activation
  • Study the coagulation cascade and its phases
  • Learn about the differences between primary and secondary hemostasis
  • Examine the clinical implications of prothrombin time (INR) in diagnosing clotting disorders
USEFUL FOR

Medical students, hematologists, and healthcare professionals interested in understanding the mechanisms of blood clotting and disorders related to hemostasis.

sameeralord
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In blood clotting disorders, clotting time is increased, but when there is plalete disorder clotting time is not affected. What is the reason for that. Aren't platelets required for blood clotting. Also when a fibrous mesh is formed, do red blood cells and platelets get stuck in it. Is it why blood clots. Thanks :smile:
 
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sameeralord said:
In blood clotting disorders, clotting time is increased, but when there is plalete disorder clotting time is not affected. What is the reason for that. Aren't platelets required for blood clotting. Also when a fibrous mesh is formed, do red blood cells and platelets get stuck in it. Is it why blood clots. Thanks :smile:

Platelets are activated in primary hemostasis to form an initial plug which becomes enmeshed in the fibrin clot as the coagulation cascade proceeds (secondary hemostasis). Platelet activation is initiated with the release of von Willibrand factor from damaged vessel walls.

Prothrombin time (INR) measures only the extrinsic coagulation pathway in vitro and is only meaningful relative to a standard control time. Both primary and secondary hemostasis are necessary to form a stable clot as far as I know.
 
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