Background Since available data are not univocal, the aim of this study was to explore the existence of a seasonal variation in platelet count. Methods The study was based on the database of the Italian Association of Blood Volunteers (AVIS), section of Ferrara, Italy, 2001--2010. Hematological data (170,238 exams referring to 16,422 donors) were categorized into seasonal and monthly intervals, and conventional and chronobiological analyses were applied. Results Platelets and plateletcrit were significantly higher in winter-autumn, with a main peak in December-February (average +3.4% and +4.6%, respectively, P <0.001 for both). Conclusions Although seasonal variations have been reported for several acute cardiovascular diseases, it is extremely unlikely that such a slight increase in platelet count in winter alone may be considered as a risk factor.
Seasonal variation of platelets in a cohort of Italian blood donors: a preliminary report.
MANFREDINI, Roberto
2013
Abstract
Background Since available data are not univocal, the aim of this study was to explore the existence of a seasonal variation in platelet count. Methods The study was based on the database of the Italian Association of Blood Volunteers (AVIS), section of Ferrara, Italy, 2001--2010. Hematological data (170,238 exams referring to 16,422 donors) were categorized into seasonal and monthly intervals, and conventional and chronobiological analyses were applied. Results Platelets and plateletcrit were significantly higher in winter-autumn, with a main peak in December-February (average +3.4% and +4.6%, respectively, P <0.001 for both). Conclusions Although seasonal variations have been reported for several acute cardiovascular diseases, it is extremely unlikely that such a slight increase in platelet count in winter alone may be considered as a risk factor.I documenti in SFERA sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
