Histology, Platelets

Excerpt

Platelets are the smallest blood cells, typically around 2μm in diameter and anucleated, with an average lifespan of 7 to 10 days in humans. Platelets first gained recognition as having a role in hemostasis more than 100 years ago by the Italian pathologist Giulio Bizzozero and significant progress was made in elucidating their role in hemostasis and thrombosis during the 20th century using light microscopy techniques. More recently, advanced techniques such as electron microscopy and immunofluorescence have allowed far more detailed analysis of platelet ultrastructure and function.