Platelets enter atherosclerotic plaque via intraplaque microvascular leakage and intraplaque hemorrhage: A histopathological study in carotid plaques

► We studied the presence of platelets inside carotid plaques using immunohistochemistry (CD42b). ► Platelets were observed in intraplaque hemorrhages, around plaque microvessels, mostly without leakage of erythrocytes and in mural thrombi. ► Platelet positive staining was associated with a higher plaque microvesseldensity, and elevated plaque-levels of interleukin-8.