Date Approved

2003

Graduate Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Physician Assistant Studies (M.P.A.S.)

Degree Program

Physician Assistant Studies

Abstract

Normal pregnancy is a hypercoaguable state in and of itself. Evidence has shown that platelets may play a role in the pathogenesis and complications of preeclampsia. The objective of this study is to compare the presence of circulating activated platelets in normal pregnancy and preeclampsia. The subjects’ blood was fixed, washed, incubated with antibodies (which detect platelets and activation of platelets), and evaluated using flow cytometry. Results of this study showed pregnant subjects (normal and preeclamptic) to have an increased percentage of activated platelets over non-pregnant subjects. Increased platelet activation may account for platelet consumption and bleeding complications in preeclamptic patients.

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