Portsmouth syndrome: review of the literature and clinicopathological correlation.

: Hereditary and acquired abnormalities of platelet function are recognized more frequently. Recent advances in platelet physiology have led to new tests of platelet function. Assessment of platelet adhesiveness and aggregation have allowed more definitive classification of platelet dysfunction. Platelet abnormalities will not be diagnosed before surgery. It would be impractical to perform these tests for platelet function as screening procedures on all patients; however, they should be considered as an important part of the laboratory screening for abnormal postoperative bleeding.