Platelet aggregation defects in non-hodgkin's lymphoma

Platelet aggregation profiles were studied in 40 patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma [NHL] at presentation and prior to the in itiation of treatment. All patients had normal bleeding time and none of them developed any bleeding symptoms. Platelet aggregation studies were performed using ADP, collagen and ristocetin. The aggregation was abnormal [reduced or absent] in 26 patients in response to ADP, while 23 patients had abnormal platelet aggregation in response to collagen. In all patients platelet aggregation was normal after the addition of ristocetin. These con firm that platelet aggregation defects are found in NHL