An exploratory study of the effects of strenuous exercise on markers of coagulation activation, circulating microparticles, and inflammation in sickle cell trait

This exploratory study evaluated the effect of intense exercise on biomarkers of inflammation and coagulation activation in subjects with and without sickle cell trait (SCT). Fifteen healthy African American men (18-35 years, 5 SCT, 10 control) completed a strenuous exercise protocol. Microparticle-associated prothrombinase and tissue factor activities, as well as soluble VCAM, total white cell and monocyte count increased transiently in all subjects following exercise. In the SCT group, exercise resulted in increased d-dimer, erythrocyte phosphatidylserine exposure, as well as increased circulating erythrocyte- and endothelial-derived microparticle numbers. These alterations could contribute to exercise-related complications in people with SCT.