Complete Blood Platelet Count with Leukocyte Differential (Automated Platelet and White Blood Cell Analysis)
This test measures the number of platelets and counts different types of white blood cells (leukocytes) in your blood. It helps assess your immune system and blood clotting function.
["Platelet and white blood cell counts help diagnose infections, bleeding disorders, or other blood-related conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 20773-8
- Short code
- MILKSPC
- Synonyms
- CC # Mlk Cult Std Plate Cnt
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile, leak-proof food-grade container or Whirl-Pak bag
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 100
- Critical range
- — – 100000 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- culture-standard-plate-count
- SNOMED
- 39579001
- Specimen volume
- At least 10-25 mL of milk to allow for serial dilutions
- Stability
- Refrigerated (≤4°C): up to 48 hours; Frozen (-20°C): not recommended as freezing may lyse bacterial cells and alter counts
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 48–72 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your doctor may order this test to evaluate symptoms like frequent infections, easy bruising, excessive bleeding, or unexplained fatigue. It’s also used before surgeries, during chemotherapy, or if you have conditions like anemia or immune disorders.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm or hand to draw blood. It usually takes about 15 minutes. Avoid eating or drinking for 8–12 hours before if instructed, as fasting may affect some blood tests.
What the Results Mean
Platelets help with clotting, while white blood cells fight infections. Abnormal counts may signal conditions like low platelet disorders (e.g., thrombocytopenia), high white blood cell counts (e.g., leukemia), or infections.
Common Conditions Linked to Results
Low platelet counts might indicate bleeding disorders, chemotherapy side effects, or liver disease. High white blood cell counts could signal infections, inflammation, or cancers like leukemia. Your doctor will interpret results in context with your symptoms and medical history.
Reference range
Grade A raw milk: <100,000 CFU/mL; Pasteurized milk: <20,000 CFU/mL; Acceptable limit per FDA/PMO: <100,000 CFU/mL for Grade A raw milkN/A
Not applicable for milk sample collection. Sample should be collected aseptically into a sterile container, kept cold (≤4°C) during transport, and analyzed within 24-48 hours of collection. No fasting required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Platelet & WBC Differential
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get my results back?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
What if my platelet count is low?
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