Abstract
Platelet-activating factor has been shown to be a mediator of inflammation, which causes platelet activation independently from ADP-, and arachidonic acid-mediated pathways. The infusion of PAF into rabbits caused an acute but reversible thrombocytopenia similar to that occurring during IgE-induced systemic anaphylaxis or after injection of immune-complexes. We have studied the effect of membrane active drugs and corticosteroids on platelet aggregation induced by PAF. Xilocaine, mepacrine, reserpine, imipramine were strong inhibitors of PAF-induced platelet aggregation similarly to 6-methyl prednisolone and hydrocortisone. Furthermore, 6-methyl prednisolone prevented in vivo PAF-induced thrombocytopenia in the rabbit. Our studies demonstrate that corticosteroids are inhibitors of PAF action in vivo and in vitro and provide a plausible rationale for the empiric observation that high dose corticosteroids may be beneficial in patients with thrombocytopenia occurring in anaphylactic shock and the acute phase of lupus erythematosus systemicus.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 589-592 |
Number of pages | 4 |
Journal | Minerva Nefrologica |
Volume | 27 |
Issue number | 4 |
Publication status | Published - 1980 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Medicine(all)