Platelet Adhesion and Thrombus Formation in Whole Blood at Arterial Shear Rate at the End of Pregnancy

Problem Platelet reactivity has not been evaluated in integrated functional testing during normal pregnancy. Here, we analysed platelet functions under arterial shear rate in comparison with static conditions. Method of study Thirty pregnant women with uncomplicated pregnancies and 30 healthy non‐pregnant women were enrolled in this study. Platelet adhesion to collagen and fibrinogen and subsequent thrombus formation were measured at arterial shear rate in whole blood using a microfluidic and imaging system. Standard light transmission aggregometry, flow cytometry of activation markers in washed platelets and impedance aggregometry in whole blood were also used to assess platelet responsiveness in static conditions. Results Compared to non‐pregnant controls, thrombus formation on collagen fibres and firm platelet adhesion on fibrinogen under arterial shear rate were significantly reduced in pregnant women. Platelet aggregometry assays in suspension showed a slight increase in platelet reactivity in pregnant women. Conclusion While platelet aggregometry and platelet activation markers in static conditions show little changes in platelet reactivity, monitoring of platelet adhesion and thrombus growth on collagen or fibrinogen under flow condition in whole blood indicates a significant decrease in pregnant women compared to controls. This decrease might contribute to counteract a hypercoagulable state and to reduce the risk of arterial thrombosis.