Platelet Count Test For Bleeding Disorders

The Platelet Count Test measures the number of platelets in a blood sample, which is important for assessing blood clotting ability and monitoring certain conditions such as bleeding disorders or bone marrow diseases.

 

Platelet Count Test Overview

Also Known As	PC Test
Type	Blood Test
Purpose	Number of Platelets in Blood
Sample Type	Blood
Preparation	No Special Preparation Required
Gender	Unisex
Age-Group	All Ages
Fasting	No
Value	150,000 to 450,000 platelets per microliter
Reporting Time	1 to 2 hours
Cost	100 to 200* INR

*Price range may vary as per location, lab type, and procedure of lab test.

 

What is Platelet Count Test

Platelet Count Test measures the number of platelets in a person's blood.

• Platelets are small, colorless cell fragments that help in blood clotting to prevent bleeding.
• The test is usually ordered by a doctor when a patient has symptoms of abnormal bleeding or clotting.
• It can also be done as part of a routine blood test to check for any abnormalities.
• The test involves taking a small blood sample from the patient, which is sent to a laboratory for analysis.
• The normal platelet count range is 150,000 to 450,000 platelets per microliter (mcL) of blood.
• A low platelet count, also known as thrombocytopenia, can cause excessive bleeding or bruising and may indicate a serious medical condition.
• A high platelet count, or thrombocytosis, can lead to blood clotting disorders and may also indicate an underlying health issue.
• The results of the platelet count test should always be interpreted in conjunction with other laboratory and clinical findings.

Interesting Facts About Platelets

• Platelets are not actually cells but small cell fragments found in the blood.
• Platelets play a crucial role in blood clotting, helping to stop bleeding from damaged blood vessels.
• The average lifespan of a platelet is only about 7-10 days, after which they are removed from the circulation and replaced by new platelets.

 

Platelet Count Test Purpose

Here is the purpose of the platelet count test.

• The primary purpose of a platelet count test is to measure the number of platelets in a person's blood.
• It is used to diagnose and monitor various medical conditions related to bleeding and clotting disorders.
• The test can help identify if a person has thrombocytopenia or thrombocytosis, which are conditions characterized by low and high platelet counts, respectively.
• It can also help monitor the effectiveness of treatment for conditions such as leukemia, anemia, and autoimmune disorders that affect platelet production or function.
• The platelet count test is often ordered as part of a routine blood test during a medical exam or check-up to screen for any abnormalities.
• Results of the platelet count test can help doctors make informed decisions about a patient's medical care and treatment plan.

 

 

Platelet Count Test Preparation

Here is the preparation of the platelet count test.

• A platelet count test typically does not require any special preparation or fasting.
• It is recommended to inform the doctor or technician about any medications, supplements, or herbal remedies that the person may be taking, as they can affect platelet function and count.
• It is also essential to inform the healthcare provider about any medical conditions or allergies that the person may have.
• Avoid strenuous exercise or physical activity that may affect the platelet count, at least 24 hours before the test.
• Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the arm for blood collection.
• It is essential to stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids before the test.
• In case of anxiety or fear of needles, it is advisable to inform the healthcare provider in advance to discuss relaxation techniques or other options.

 

Platelet Count Test Procedure

Here is the procedure for the platelet count test.

• The platelet count test procedure involves taking a blood sample from a vein in the arm or from a finger prick.
• The healthcare provider will use an alcohol swab to clean the area where the blood will be drawn.
• They will then place an elastic band around the upper arm to apply pressure and cause the veins to swell with blood.
• A needle attached to a tube will be inserted into the vein to collect the blood sample.
• For a finger prick test, a small lancet will be used to make a tiny puncture in the fingertip to collect a drop of blood.
• The collected blood sample will be sent to a laboratory for analysis.
• The whole procedure usually takes a few minutes to complete.
• The person may feel a slight prick or stinging sensation when the needle is inserted or when the finger is pricked.
• After the test, pressure will be applied to the puncture site for a few minutes to stop any bleeding.
• The person may be advised to avoid any heavy lifting or strenuous activities for a short period after the test to prevent bruising.

 

Platelet Count Test Report

Platelet Count Test Report PDF

 

Platelet Count Test Normal Range

Here is basic platelet count test measure average platelet levels per microliter (mcL) of blood.

Result	Platelet count
High platelet level (Thrombocytosis)	More than 450,000
Normal platelet level	150,000–450,000
Low platelet level (Thrombocytopenia)	less than 150,000

• A person’s platelet levels can change with age, and certain medical conditions can also affect them.
• A platelet count that is too low or too high can lead to health complications. A low platelet count is known as thrombocytopenia, while a high platelet count is known as thrombocytosis.
• Doctors suggest that normal platelet levels should take into account other variables, such as a person’s age and sex.

 

Platelet Count Test Interpretation

Here's a table that summarizes platelet count test interpretation:

Platelet Count Range	Interpretation
Below 150,000/mcL	Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia). Can cause excessive bleeding or bruising, and may indicate a serious medical condition.
150,000 to 450,000/mcL	Normal platelet count.
Above 450,000/mcL	High platelet count (thrombocytosis). Can lead to blood clotting disorders and may also indicate an underlying health issue.

• Note: The actual interpretation of the platelet count test results may vary depending on various factors such as the person's age, gender, medical history, and other laboratory findings.
• Therefore, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan

 

Specimen Requirments For Platelet Count Test

Here are the specimen requirements for ALC Test.

Specimen	Whole Blood
Volume	Tube fill capacity
Container	Lavender-Top (EDTA) Tube

 

High Platelet Count Cause

Here's the main cause behind the high platelet count.

Causes of High Platelet Count (Thrombocytosis)	Other Causes
Chronic infections or inflammatory disorders, such as tuberculosis, hepatitis, or rheumatoid arthritis	Trauma, surgery, or splenectomy (surgical removal of the spleen)
Cancer or blood disorders such as leukemia, lymphoma, or myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs)	Certain medications, such as aspirin, heparin, or estrogen
Iron deficiency anemia or other nutritional deficiencies	Genetic mutations or inherited conditions, such as essential thrombocythemia (ET) or familial thrombocytosis
Smoking, obesity, or high cholesterol levels

 

Note: This table is not exhaustive, and there may be other causes of high platelet counts. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

 

Low Platelet Count Cause

Here's the main cause behind the low platelet count.

Causes of Low Platelet Count (Thrombocytopenia)	Other Causes
Viral infections, such as hepatitis C or HIV	Certain medications, such as heparin, chemotherapy drugs, or antibiotics
Autoimmune disorders, such as lupus or idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)	Heavy alcohol consumption
Bone marrow disorders, such as leukemia or myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS)	Nutritional deficiencies, such as vitamin B12 or folate deficiency
Pregnancy complications, such as preeclampsia or HELLP syndrome	Certain genetic disorders, such as Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome or Fanconi anemia

 

Note: This table is not exhaustive, and there may be other causes of low platelet counts. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

 

What does it mean when your platelet count is high?

• A high platelet count, also known as thrombocytosis, can be a sign of an underlying medical condition.
• Thrombocytosis can lead to blood clotting disorders, which can increase the risk of strokes, heart attacks, and other serious health problems.
• High platelet counts may be caused by chronic infections or inflammatory disorders, such as tuberculosis, hepatitis, or rheumatoid arthritis.
• Blood cancers, such as leukemia or lymphoma, can also cause a high platelet count.
• Certain medications, such as aspirin, heparin, or estrogen, may cause thrombocytosis.
• In rare cases, high platelet counts may be due to genetic mutations or inherited conditions, such as essential thrombocythemia (ET) or familial thrombocytosis.
• Smoking, obesity, or high cholesterol levels can also contribute to the development of thrombocytosis.

 

Higher risk of blood clots

• Platelets are cells in the blood that help with clotting and prevent bleeding.
• If the platelet count is too high, the blood may clot too easily, increasing the risk of blood clots.
• Blood clots can be dangerous and lead to serious health problems, such as strokes, heart attacks, or pulmonary embolisms.
• High platelet counts, or thrombocytosis, can be caused by various underlying medical conditions, including chronic infections, blood disorders, or cancers.
• Certain medications, such as aspirin or heparin, may be prescribed to prevent blood clots in patients with high platelet counts.
• It is important to monitor platelet counts regularly and seek medical attention if any symptoms of blood clots develop, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or leg swelling.

 

What does it mean when your platelet count is low?

• A low platelet count, also known as thrombocytopenia, can be a sign of an underlying medical condition.
• Thrombocytopenia can increase the risk of bleeding and bruising due to insufficient clotting of the blood.
• Low platelet counts may be caused by viral infections, such as hepatitis C or HIV, or autoimmune disorders, such as lupus or idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP).
• Certain medications, such as heparin, chemotherapy drugs, or antibiotics, can cause thrombocytopenia.
• Bone marrow disorders, such as leukemia or myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), may also cause a low platelet count.
• Pregnancy complications, such as preeclampsia or HELLP syndrome, can also lead to thrombocytopenia.
• Nutritional deficiencies, such as vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, and heavy alcohol consumption may also contribute to a low platelet count.
• In rare cases, low platelet counts may be due to certain genetic disorders, such as Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome or Fanconi anemia.
• Treatment for thrombocytopenia depends on the underlying cause and may include medications, blood transfusions, or other therapies. It is essential to seek medical attention if any symptoms of bleeding or bruising develop.

 

Higher risk of spontaneous bleeding

• Platelets are cells in the blood that help with clotting and prevent bleeding.
• If the platelet count is too low, the blood may not clot effectively, increasing the risk of spontaneous bleeding.
• Spontaneous bleeding can occur in various parts of the body, such as the gums, nose, or skin, and can be severe or life-threatening in some cases.
• Low platelet counts, or thrombocytopenia, can be caused by various underlying medical conditions, including viral infections, autoimmune disorders, or bone marrow disorders.
• Certain medications, such as heparin, chemotherapy drugs, or antibiotics, may also cause thrombocytopenia and increase the risk of bleeding.
• Treatment for thrombocytopenia depends on the underlying cause and may include medications, blood transfusions, or other therapies.
• It is essential to monitor platelet counts regularly and seek medical attention if any symptoms of bleeding develop, such as excessive bruising, prolonged bleeding from cuts or wounds, or blood in the urine or stool.

 

High platelet counts effects

If a person’s platelet count remains high, chronic medical conditions may be responsible. These may include:

• Cancer: Lung, stomach, breast, and ovarian cancers, as well as lymphoma, can cause high platelet counts. Additional blood testing, imaging scans, or a biopsy can test for cancer.
• Anemia: People with iron deficiency or hemolytic anemia may have high platelets. Further blood testing can detect most forms of anemia.
• Inflammatory disorders: Diseases that cause an inflammatory immune response, such as rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), can increase platelet count. A person will have other symptoms in most cases.
• Infections: Some infections, such as tuberculosis, can cause high platelets.
• Splenectomy: Removal of the spleen can cause a temporary increase in platelets.

 

Low platelet counts effects

Common causes of low platelet volume include:

• Viruses: Viruses such as mononucleosis, HIV, AIDS, measles, and hepatitis may deplete platelets.
• Medication: Drugs, such as aspirin, H2-blockers, quinidine, antibiotics containing sulfa, and some diuretics may lower platelet count.
• Cancer: Cancer that has spread to the bone marrow can harm the body’s ability to make new platelets. Lymphoma and leukemia are common culprits.
• Anemia: A type of anemia called aplastic anemia reduces the number of all kinds of blood cells, including platelets.
• Infection: A bacterial infection, especially a blood infection called sepsis, can reduce platelet count.
• Autoimmune disorders: Autoimmune diseases such as lupus and Crohn’s disease lower platelet count by causing the body to attack its tissue.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy harms existing tissue and cancer cells, making it difficult for the body to produce platelets.
• Poisoning: Exposure to some pesticides can damage platelets.
• Cirrhosis: Liver cirrhosis, often due to excessive drinking, can reduce platelet count.
• Chronic bleeding: Any disorder that causes ongoing uncontrolled bleeding.

A platelet count that is lower than it once was or on the lower end of normal may not be a cause for concern in an older adult — especially if there are no other symptoms.

 

Platelet Count Test is Safe?

• The test is safe, and complications are rare. People with bleeding disorders should tell their doctor about any history of bleeding issues.
• Most people find that the test is only a brief inconvenience and a source of mild discomfort.

 

When Do You Get Platelet Count Test Results?

The amount of time it takes to get the results varies.

• Hospitals administering the test for emergencies or people about to undergo surgery often get the results almost immediately.
• It can take 1 to 2 hrs to get the results when a doctor’s office orders the test from an outside lab.

 

Platelet Count Test Limitation

Here are some possible limitations of the Platelet Count Test.

• Platelet count test may be affected by factors such as recent blood transfusions.
• Certain medications, such as aspirin and other blood thinners, can affect platelet count results.
• Infections or inflammation in the body may temporarily increase platelet count.
• Platelet clumping or clumping of other blood cells can lead to inaccurate test results.
• Platelet count alone may not provide a complete assessment of overall blood clotting function.

 

Platelet Count Test Risk Factors

Here is the potential risk factor of the Platelet Count Test.

• Certain medications, such as blood thinners, can affect platelet counts.
• Medical conditions like leukemia, liver disease, and autoimmune disorders can alter platelet counts.
• Infections, particularly viral infections, can temporarily decrease platelet counts.
• Chemotherapy or radiation therapy can suppress bone marrow function and lead to decreased platelet production.
• Genetic disorders or inherited conditions, such as thrombocytopenia or Bernard-Soulier syndrome, can result in low platelet counts.

 

Doctor Recommendations After Platelet Count Test Result

Here are Doctor recommendations or consult a specialist after Platelet Count Test.

Platelet Count Result	Doctor to Visit	Reason to Visit
High	Hematologist	Investigation of possible conditions
Normal	No specific doctor	No immediate cause for concern
Low	Hematologist	Evaluation of potential disorders

 

Platelet Count Test Price

Here are the estimated Platelet Count Test Price in India with different top cities:

City	Price Range (INR)*
Mumbai	100 - 200
New Delhi	100 - 200
Bangalore	100 - 200
Hyderabad	100 - 200
Kolkata	100 - 150
Pune	100 - 150
Lucknow	100 - 200
Noida	100 - 200
Surat	100 - 150
Gurugram	100 - 150
Patna	100 - 200
Chennai	100 - 150
Jaipur	100 - 200
Ahmedabad	100 - 150

*Prices are approximate and vary depending on a specific laboratory or healthcare facility.

 

Summary

Overall, Platelet count test can help identify if a person has thrombocytopenia or thrombocytosis, which are conditions characterized by low and high platelet counts, respectively. Also check Drlogy Test for detailed information about all medical tests for patients, doctors, scholers and medical students.

 

Reference

• National Library of Medicine: Platelet Disorders [1].
• National Library of Medicine: Bleeding Disorders [2].