Abstract WP126: Profile of Reticulated Platelets and Red Cell Reticulocytes in Patients With Recently Symptomatic versus Asymptomatic Carotid Stenosis

Introduction: The mechanisms responsible for the disparity in stroke risk between asymptomatic and symptomatic carotid stenosis are not fully understood. Profiles of ‘reticulated platelets’ and red cell reticulocytes in carotid stenosis patients are poorly understood. Methods: This prospective, multi-centre, observational analytical study compared full blood count parameters and platelet production/turnover biomarkers in early-phase (≤4 weeks after TIA/stroke) and late-phase (≥3 months) symptomatic versus asymptomatic moderate-severe (≥50-99%) carotid stenosis patients. Reticulated platelets were quantified by whole-blood flow cytometry and by an ‘automated assay’ (Sysmex XE-2100™). Multiple linear regression analysis controlled for the potential influence of independent variables on observed differences between groups. Results: Data from 43 early-phase symptomatic and 37 late-phase symptomatic patients were compared with 34 asymptomatic patients. The mean platelet count in citrate-anticoagulated blood wa...