Peripheral Blood Smear Examination (Qualitative Platelet Morphology Assessment)
This test involves examining a sample of your blood under a microscope to assess the shape, size, and number of platelets, which are key components of your blood involved in clotting.
["A platelet smear helps identify abnormalities that may affect your blood clotting function."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 60455-3
- Short code
- Bizarre platelets Bld Ql Smear
- Synonyms
- Bizarre platelets Bld Ql Smear
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 150
- Ref high
- 400
- Critical range
- 50 N/A – 1000 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- microscopy-light
- CPT
- 85049
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003003
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order a platelet smear to check for conditions like abnormal platelet counts, clotting disorders, or signs of bleeding or clotting issues. It can also help diagnose conditions such as thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), thrombocytosis (high platelet count), or platelet dysfunctions like von Willebrand disease or idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP).
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw a blood sample. If you’re on blood-thinning medications, inform your provider before the test to ensure safety.
What Happens During the Test
A small amount of blood is taken and spread thinly on a microscope slide. The sample is then examined under a microscope by a trained lab professional to evaluate platelet appearance, distribution, and any signs of abnormalities.
What Are Platelets?
Platelets are tiny blood cells that help your body stop bleeding by clumping together to form clots. They can appear normal or abnormal on a smear, such as being too large, too small, or clumping in unusual ways.
Reference range
Adult: 150-400 x 10^9/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal platelet morphology on a smear can indicate underlying conditions affecting clotting, such as infections, cancers, or inherited disorders. It may also signal conditions like autoimmune diseases, liver disease, or reactions to medications. Early detection can guide treatment decisions.
Short name
Platelet smear review
Frequently asked questions
What does a platelet smear tell me about my health?
Will I need to fast before this test?
Can I take my blood-thinning medication before this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy