Challenges in diagnosing sticky platelet syndrome using light transmission aggregometry: a scoping review.

Abstract

Sticky Platelet Syndrome (SPS) is an inherited platelet hyperreactivity disorder associated with recurrent arterial and venous thrombosis. However, its diagnosis remains controversial due to substantial variability in light transmission aggregometry (LTA), the reference method. To map current diagnostic practices, we conducted a scoping review following PRISMA-ScR and JBI methodology, systematically searching Scopus, MEDLINE, Embase, and Google Scholar. We included 27 studies that collectively demonstrate considerable heterogeneity in patient preparation, sample handling, agonist usage, and data interpretation. These differences span pre-analytical and analytical variables such as washout periods, citrate concentration, centrifugation conditions, and threshold derivation methods. While detailed synthesis is ongoing, our preliminary observations highlight critical inconsistencies that may limit comparability across laboratories. This review underscores the need for standardized diagnostic approaches. Establishing harmonized protocols and validating them across centers could improve diagnostic accuracy and support better platelet function testing in SPS and related disorders.