Small but mighty: Platelets in NASH and other chronic liver diseases.

Commentary

Several pleiotropic effects of platelets on liver homeostasis and disease have been identified in recent studies. These effects are distinct from their long-recognized roles in hemostasis and coagulation. Recent evidence suggests that pro-thrombotic tendencies may exceed the bleeding diathesis traditionally associated with advanced liver disease. This implies that anti-platelet therapy (APT) may in fact be safely used in certain patients with chronic liver disease.