Platelets, coagulation and fibrinolysis in patients with diabetic retinopathy
Brooks, A.M.; Hussein, S.; Chesterman, C.N.; Martin, J.F.; Alford, F.P.; Penington, D.G.
Thrombosis and Haemostasis 49(2): 123-127
1983
ISSN/ISBN: 0340-6245 PMID: 6223403 Document Number: 216823
Twenty control subjects, 12 insulin treated and 10 non-insulin treated diabetics were studied. All diabetics had retinopathy documented by fluorescein angiography and fluorophotometry. Factor VIIIR:Ag content and concentration and a slight increase in volume of the highest platelets in the insulin treated diabetics. Plasma platelet factor 4 and antithrombin III concentrations were normal and plasma .beta.TG levels were elevated only in those patients with renal insufficiency. Platelet aggregometry was performed in 18 diabetic subjects and found to be normal. Abnormalities of coagulation and platelets in diabetes apparently are determined by metabolic factors rather than the severity of microvascular disease per se.