Possible mechanism of action of drugs in the basic therapy of rheumatoid arthritis: effect on platelet aggregation [Possible meccanismo d'azione dei farmaci della terapia di fondo dell'artri te reumatoide: effetto sulla aggregazione piastrinica]

As it is known that platelets play an important role in arising and maintaining the inflammation, the authors have studied "in vitro", the effect on platelet aggregation of three drugs (Sodium Aurothiomalate, Auranofin and Penicillamine) used in basic therapy of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). The drugs are used in different concentrations and at different times of preincubation. The study was based on the principle of Born and using the Coagg-Salus aggregometer. The platelet aggregation was induced by ADP 2.5 microM. The authors have demonstrated that the above-named drugs inhibit the platelet aggregation induced by ADP in different percentile, according to the concentrations adopted and the time of preincubation with platelets rich plasma. This study seems particularly interesting because it can offer a possible interpretation on the mechanism of action of basic therapy in RA.