Platelet activation markers as indicators for anti-platelet therapy

Abstract

Methods for determining the appropriateness of anti-platelet therapy in a patient with a platelet-affected disease. The Mean Platelet Component value in a patient blood sample is determined corresponding to the patient's platelet activation status. A high platelet activation status indicates the appropriateness of anti-platelet therapy.

1 . A method for determining the appropriateness of anti-platelet therapy in a patient with a platelet-affected disease comprising determining the Mean Platelet Component value in a patient blood sample wherein said Mean Platelet Component value corresponds to said patient's platelet activation status and wherein a high platelet activation status indicates the appropriateness of anti-platelet therapy. 
   
   
       2 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein an Mean Platelet Component value of less than 25-30 g/dL indicates the appropriateness of anti-platelet therapy for said patient. 
   
   
       3 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein an Mean Platelet Component value of less than 26-29 g/dL indicates the appropriateness of anti-platelet therapy for said patient. 
   
   
       4 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein an Mean Platelet Component value of less than 27-28 g/dL indicates the appropriateness of anti-platelet therapy for said patient. 
   
   
       5 . The method of  claim 1 , further comprising determining the expression of at least one early marker of vascular disease, wherein expression of said early marker of vascular disease correlates with the presence of a platelet-affected disease. 
   
   
       6 . The method of  claim 5 , wherein at least one of said early markers is selected from C-reactive protein, B-type natriuretic peptide, myeloperoxidase, metalloproteinase-9, soluble CD40 ligand, pregnancy-associated plasma protein A, choline, ischemia-modified albumin, unbound free fatty acids, glycogen phosphorylase isoenzyme BB, and placental growth factor. 
   
   
       7 . The method of  claim 5 , wherein at least one of said early markers is C-reactive protein. 
   
   
       8 . The method of  claim 5 , wherein at least one of said early markers is B-natriuretic peptide.