Platelets, or thrombocytes, are found in the blood. Their main function is to stop bleeding by clumping together at the site of a bleed. A normal range for a platelet count is between 150,000 and 400,000 platelets per microlitre. A low platelet count or thrombosytopenia can result in bleeding problems such as nose bleeds or bleeding gums. A high platelet count or thrombocytosis is generally symptomless but is indicative of another issue, often an inflammatory disease.
New research conducted at the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University in Fujian, China, has found that there could be a link between platelet count and mesothelioma prognosis.
The study analysed mesothelioma studies completed during April 2016 and despite significant variability between studies, there was a clear correlation between platelet counts prior to treatment and the patient’s response to treatment.
A high platelet count was associated with poor overall survival of mesothelioma.
The results of this study will help doctors better advise patients of their prognosis, which will assist them in making informed decisions with regards to their treatment choices.
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Source: Zhou, Y. et al, “Pretreatment thrombocytosis as a significant prognostic factor in malignant mesothelioma: a meta analysis”, November 16, 2016. Platelets.