Platelet activation and antiplatelet therapy in sepsis: A narrative review

Platelet activation plays an important role in the development of sepsis. During sepsis, platelet activation leads to endothelial cell injury and promotes neutrophil extracellular trap and microthrombus formation, exacerbating septic coagulation and inflammatory reactions. The resultant induction or aggravation of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) leads to organ damage. Antiplatelet drugs can inhibit coagulation and inflammatory reactions in models of sepsis, reducing damage to organ function. Clinical studies suggest that aspirin may improve the prognosis of patients with sepsis. In conclusion, antiplatelet drugs are promising agents that can improve the prognosis of sepsis patients and are expected to become a new line of treatment. However, further clinical studies are required for validation.