Platelet count and adhesiveness on induction to high altitude by air and road

Platelet count and adhesiveness (PA) were estimated in 87 normal lowlanders at sea level. They were randomly divided in three groups. Group A was taken to 3 660 m by air, group B by rapid road ascent and group C by road after acclimatisation enroute. Estimations were repeated serially during stay at high altitude and then on return to sea level. The subjects were divided into symptomatic and asymptomatic groups based on their score on a symptom score chart. Some subjects of the air induced group (A) developed significant symptoms and showed a significant rise in PA on days 2 and 10 of exposure. Remaining subjects of group A and all subjects of road inducted group (B and C) remained asymptomatic and showed no change in PA. No significant change in the platelet counts in any of the lowlanders was noted on exposure to high altitude. The significance of these findings is discussed.