Aim: P-selectin is an adhesion molecule secreted both by the endothelium and platelets and has been shown to be higher in patients with cardiovascular risk factors. Given its role in inflammation and thrombogenesis, we evaluated its role in normal controls and those with myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN).
Method: Normal controls, without history of cardiovascular disease or thrombotic disease, and patients with MPN were recruited. Thromboelastography (TEG) was performed on whole blood while the remaining global coagulation assays (calibrated automated thrombogram (CAT), overall haemostatic potential (OHP) and P-selectin) were performed on thawed double-centrifuged, platelet poor plasma previously stored at -80°C.
Results: Eighty-nine normal controls (59 females, 30 males) and 37 MPN patients (20 females, 17 males) were recruited. MPN patients had markedly higher median P-selectin levels (109 vs 49 ng/mL, p < 0.01) with higher platelet counts (p < 0.01). Higher P-selectin levels were associated with decreased vWF activity (74% vs 101%, p = 0.04) and factor VIII levels (91% vs 123%, p = 0.02). No differences were seen in global coagulation assays. In normal controls, higher P-selectin is associated raised LDL and triglycerides and older age. CAT parameters were lower with reduced velocity index and thrombin peak.
Conclusion: P-selectin is markedly higher in MPN patients and is likely related to increased platelet secretion, however, this did not impact global coagulation assays and is associated with decreased vWF activity and factor VIII levels. In normal controls, higher P-selectin is associated with poor lipid profile, older age and male sex, and could serve as a marker of cardiovascular risk.