Platelet Count
Platelet Count
A platelet count test measures the number of platelets in a sample of your blood. Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, are tiny, spherical cell fragments that move around in your blood. They are necessary for the body to form blood clots that are required to stop bleeding.
Testing the platelet count can reveal whether your platelet levels are too high or too low. Low platelet counts make blood clotting difficult for the body, which can lead to excessive bleeding. Too many clots can form when platelet counts are high. Blood clots in blood vessels have the tendency to lodge in the heart, brain, lungs, or intestines, which can lead to life-threatening medical conditions.
Thus, getting your platelet count tested is recommended to determine whether your blood can properly clot or not.
This test is also known as Thrombocyte count, PLT, PLT Count
Who should get tested?
A platelet count is recommended for individuals having symptoms of too many or too little platelets.
Symptoms of low platelet count include:
Prolonged bleeding after a small cut or injury
Nosebleeds
Unexplained bruising
Pinpoint sized red spots on the skin
Heavy and/or prolonged menstrual periods
Symptoms of high platelet count include
Numbness of hands and feet
Headache
Dizziness
Weakness
What is platelet count test used for?
A platelet count is performed
As a part of regularly scheduled complete blood count
In the case of easy bruising and prolonged bleeding, which are symptoms of bleeding disorders
To monitor platelet count in conditions like dengue fever
To find bone marrow diseases
Test preparation:
Avoid strenuous exercise before the test. If you are a woman, let your doctor know if you are pregnant or if you are on your period. Ensure your doctor is aware of what prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, or dietary supplements you are taking. Ask your doctor for details about pre-test preparations, and make sure to follow instructions closely
Platelet count measures the number of platelets found in one microliter of blood.
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Test name |
Normal platelet count result |
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Platelet Count |
150,000 to 400,000 platelets per microliter (mcL) |
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Some laboratories use different measurements, and normal value ranges may vary slightly between laboratories.
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Deviation from normal levels indicates the following:
·      Below 150,000 platelets per microliter, is considered low. Your risk of bleeding increases if your platelet count is less than 50,000 platelets per microliter. Even routine activities can result in bleeding. This condition may be caused due to cancer treatments like chemotherapy or radiation, certain medications, or autoimmune disorders
.·  A platelet count of 400,000 platelets per microliter is considered high. This condition may be caused due to iron deficiency after certain infections, major surgery or trauma, cancer, bone marrow diseases, or the removal of the spleen
FAQs
How is the sample collected during platelet count test?
A blood sample is collected from a vein in your arm using a small needle. This procedure typically takes no longer than five minutes
What are the risks associated during platelet count sample collection?
This test involves negligible risk. There might be slight pain or tenderness around the site where the needle went in. Rarely, the site can become infected
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for the platelet count results?
You will usually get the reports the same day after the collection of the blood sample. However, it could take longer at times
What factors can affect platelet count results?
If you live at a high altitude or have recently engaged in strenuous exercise, your platelet count might increase. If you are about to start your period, are pregnant, or are using birth control pills, your platelet count might decrease. Your platelet count may also be impacted by some medications
Should I be concerned if my platelet count is abnormal?
If your platelet count is abnormal, it might be because of an underlying medical condition like cancer, bone marrow diseases, autoimmune disorders, etc. Your healthcare provider will consider your medical history, symptoms, and other factors to determine the cause of your abnormal platelet count and may order additional tests like ESR, CBC, iron studies, etc. to make a diagnosis
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