Platelet function in rheumatoid arthritis: arthritic and cardiovascular implications

Rheumatol Int. 2011 Feb;31(2):153-64. doi: 10.1007/s00296-010-1446-x.

Abstract

Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are at high risk of cardiovascular events. Platelet biomarkers are involved in inflammation, atherosclerosis and thrombosis. Cardiovascular and RA-associated factors can alter the structure and function of platelets, starting from megakaryocytopoiesis. Reactive megakaryocytopoiesis increases circulating platelets count and triggers hyperactivity. Hyperactive platelets target synovial membranes with subsequent local rheumatoid inflammation. Hyperactive platelets interact with other cells, and target the vascular wall. Accumulating evidence suggests that disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARD) decrease platelet activity.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antirheumatic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Arthritis, Rheumatoid / complications
  • Arthritis, Rheumatoid / drug therapy
  • Arthritis, Rheumatoid / metabolism*
  • Blood Platelets / drug effects
  • Blood Platelets / metabolism*
  • CD40 Antigens / metabolism
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / drug therapy
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / etiology
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / metabolism*
  • Cell-Derived Microparticles / metabolism
  • Humans
  • P-Selectin / blood
  • Thrombosis / metabolism

Substances

  • Antirheumatic Agents
  • CD40 Antigens
  • P-Selectin