What does the Ristocetin test evaluate?

The Ristocetin test is primarily used to assess platelet function, particularly in relation to von Willebrand disease. This test evaluates the ability of platelets to aggregate (clump together) in response to Ristocetin, an antibiotic that can induce platelet aggregation when von Willebrand factor (vWF) is present. In a healthy individual, Ristocetin will stimulate the platelets to clump as vWF helps them bind to collagen in the blood vessels.

In cases of von Willebrand disease, where there is a deficiency or dysfunction of vWF, the response to Ristocetin will be abnormal, indicating impaired platelet aggregation. Thus, the outcome of this test provides valuable information regarding the functionality of platelets in the context of a patient’s clotting potential and supports the diagnosis of von Willebrand disease and other platelet function disorders.