Abstract

The identification of an endothelium derived relaxing factor (EDRF) such as nitric oxide was the beginning of the use of exogenous NO in the clinical treatment of various diseases. Due to its properties (relatively short physical half-life and its selective activity towards the pulmonary vascular system) the inhalation of exogenous NO (iNO) enables to reduce blood resistance in the pulmonary vessels without any apparent influence on systemic pressure. The early use of iNO decreases the parameters of artificial ventilation and reduces the risk of serious and permanent respiratory system injuries. Being a signal molecule, NO influences blood platelet functioning: inhibits both platelet adhesion and aggregation. The use of exogenous NO in the management of persistent pulmonary hypertension, during cardiac operations or the respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) has already become the accepted method of therapy. Nowadays, more advanced research strategies are being employed with the use of iNO or NO donors in the management of thromboembolic complications, where the endotheliums injury may result in reduced endogenous NO production.

Keywords: Nitric Oxide, Blood Platelets, NO inhalation therapy, thromboembolic disease, hemostatic disorders