Book excerpt: A rapid increase in our understanding of the biology of platelets and their role in disease in recent years has been paralleled by increasing successes with established platelet-modifying therapies in many clinical conditions. This text focuses on the clinical role of platelets in a wide variety of haematologic, cardiovascular and other disorders, providing a practical, clinically relevant handbook for all clinicians and researchers interested in platelets and their role in disease. Covering platelet physiology, bleeding disorders, thrombotic disorders and antithrombotic therapy. Chapters cover all the conventional and less conventional aspects of platelet involvement in disease, with an emphasis on recent clinical developments. Clear take home messages have been included in each chapter to aid clinical practice. With contributions from leading experts across three continents, Platelets in Hematologic and Cardiovascular Disorders is an up-to-date, well illustrated, practical resource for everyone involved in clinical practice with platelet disorders.