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By Dr J.Dattu Raju
Consultant General physician
What is the purpose of the platelet count test? What happens during a platelet count? How to prepare for the platelet count? Are there any risks with a platelet count test? What do platelet count results mean? Frequently Asked Questions

Platelet count

A platelet count is a blood test that measures the amount of platelets in the blood. Platelets are essential for blood clotting. Bleeding occurs when one of the blood vessels is injured. The platelets will clot (clump together) to plug the blood vessel hole and stop the bleeding. A healthy adult's platelet count ranges from 150,000 to 450,000 platelets per microliter of blood.

A low platelet count, also known as thrombocytopenia, can be caused by a number of underlying medical disorders, such as anemia,bone marrow illnesses, viral infections, or certain medications. A high platelet count, also called thrombocytosis, can indicate underlying medical conditions such as cancer,inflammation, or liver disease.

It's important to remember that a single platelet count test may not provide an accurate picture of a person's health. Further testing and examination may be required to discover the cause of an abnormal platelet count.

What is the purpose of the platelet count test?

The platelet count is used for several purposes in medical diagnosis and treatment:

Monitoring treatment effectiveness

Platelet count is used to monitor the effectiveness of treatments that can affect platelet production, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Diagnosing bleeding or clotting disorders

Abnormal platelet counts can indicate bleeding or clotting disorders, such as idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) or von Willebrand disease.

Assessing bone marrow function

Platelet count can be used to assess the health and function of the bone marrow, which is the main producer of platelets in the body.

Evaluating liver function

Platelet count can also be used as an indirect measure of liver function, as the liver plays a role in platelet production and removal.

Monitoring viral infections

Some viral infections, such as dengue fever or hepatitis, can cause changes in platelet count, and the test can be used to monitor these infections.

It's important to note that platelet count is just one of many tests used to diagnose and evaluate medical conditions. Other additional tests and evaluations may be required to identify the reason for an abnormal platelet count.

What happens during a platelet count?

Blood collection for a platelet count only requires a brief period of time. The test can be performed at a hospital, lab, or the office of the healthcare provider. Blood samples are often taken by a specialist referred to as a lab technician. Here are the things which are done by the lab technicians:

  • Choose a vein on the inside of the arm, near your elbow.
  • Wraps a tourniquet (tight band or cord) around your upper arm. The tourniquet forces blood into the veins, making it easier to draw blood.
  • Cleans the skin around the vein.
  • Inserts a needle into the vein. Patients may feel a light stick and mild pain.
  • Fills a collection tube with blood.
  • Removes the needle and tourniquet.
  • Apply a tiny bandage to the arm.
  • A healthcare provider places the blood in a small machine. The machine counts platelets and other blood cells in about a minute.

A blood smear may be performed in some cases by the provider. This is an extra test that uses a microscope to examine a small blood sample. A blood smear is used to determine the size and shape of blood cells.

How to prepare for the platelet count?

Here are some steps one can take to prepare for a platelet count:

Fasting

You may be asked to fast before the test, usually for about 8 hours. This helps ensure accurate results, as food and drink affect the platelet count.

Medications

You may be asked to stop taking certain medications that can affect platelet counts, such as aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), for a period of time

Are there any risks with a platelet count test?

A platelet count is a basic and common test. There are no substantial risks. There may be some bleeding where the needle enters the vein. One may also notice some light bruising or pain in the arm.

What do platelet count results mean?

The results of a platelet count test show the number of platelets in an individual's blood, measured in platelets per microliter of blood.

  • Abnormal platelet count results can mean different things, depending on whether the count is too high or too low.
  • Low platelet count, also known as thrombocytopenia, can be a sign of many underlying medical conditions, such as anemia, bone marrow disorders, viral infections, or certain medications. A low platelet count can also increase the risk of bleeding and bruising.
  • A high platelet count can indicate the presence of underlying medical disorders such as cancer, inflammation, or liver disease. High platelet count can also increase the risk of blood clots.

It should be noted that a single platelet count test may not provide an accurate picture of an individual's health, and additional testing and examination may be required to identify the cause of an aberrant platelet count. The platelet count test results will be interpreted by the healthcare provider in the context of the patient's medical history, physical examination, and other test results.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What causes a low platelet count (thrombocytopenia)?

There are many possible causes of low platelet count, including certain medications, viral infections,autoimmune disorders, and bone marrow problems.

2. Can alcohol consumption affect platelet count?

Yes, excessive alcohol consumption can lead to a decrease in platelet count, known as alcoholic thrombocytopenia.

3. Can stress affect platelet count?

Yes,stress can affect platelet count, but it is not a direct cause of a change in platelet count. However, stress can lead to certain underlying medical conditions that can affect platelet count.

4. Can a low platelet count be dangerous?

Yes, a low platelet count can be dangerous as it can increase the risk of bleeding and bruising.

5. What are the symptoms of low platelet count?

Symptoms of low platelet count may include easy bruising, heavy bleeding, red or purple spots on the skin (petechiae), and excessive bleeding from injury sites.

6. What is the difference between platelets and red blood cells?

Platelets and red blood cells are two different types of blood cells. Platelets are responsible for blood clotting, while red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen.

7. Can diet affect platelet count?

Yes, a lack of certain nutrients in the diet can affect platelet count. For example, a deficiency in vitamin B12 or folic acid can lead to a low platelet count.

8. Can exercise affect platelet count?

Yes, intense physical activity can cause a temporary decrease in platelet count.

9. Can a high platelet count be dangerous?

Yes, high platelet count (thrombocytosis) can be dangerous as it can increase the risk of blood clots and stroke.

10. What is the cost of a platelet count?

The average cost of the test ranges between Rs. 50 and Rs. 220, depending on the city, quality, and availability.