Sticky Platelet Syndrome and the Role of Glycoprotein Receptors: A Review of Literature

Thrombosis, especially arterial, develops by mediation of platelets, adhering to collagen fibers at areas of endothelial cell damage. At this phase, platelet activation leads them to secrete factors [ADP, Fibrinogen, von Willebrand Factor (vWF), Fibronectin, Factor XIII] capable of promoting cell aggregation/adhesion and coagulation, inducing vasoconstriction (thromboxane A2) and acting as mitogens [Platelet-Derived Growth Factor (PDGF)]. Together with Tissue Factor, they activate the coagulation system that starts secondary haemostasis, and potentially, the temporary or permanent vascular occlusion [2,3].