Skip to content

Megakaryocyte Nuclei Count in Blood (Manual Count)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the number of nuclei in megakaryocytes, large blood cells that produce platelets. It may be used to assess bone marrow function or detect abnormalities in platelet production.

Quick summary

["This test helps evaluate blood cell production and potential platelet disorders."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
70028-6
Short code
Megakar nuclei NFr Bld Manual
Synonyms
Megakar nuclei NFr Bld Manual
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
manual-count
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 Might This Test Be Ordered?

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unusual bleeding, easy bruising, or fatigue, or if they suspect conditions affecting your bone marrow or blood cell production, such as thrombocytopenia or certain cancers.

What Does a Result Mean?

Results are not typically reported numerically in standard lab reports. Instead, they are often described qualitatively (e.g., increased, decreased, or normal) based on comparison to expected patterns in blood samples from healthy individuals.

How Is the Sample Collected?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is processed manually to count the nuclei in megakaryocytes under a microscope.

What Should You Do Before the Test?

No special preparation is needed. However, inform your provider about any medications, supplements, or recent illnesses that could affect blood cell counts.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Megakaryocyte Nuclei Count

Frequently asked questions

What causes an abnormal megakaryocyte nuclei count?
Abnormal counts may result from conditions like leukemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, or other bone marrow diseases. It can also be influenced by medications, infections, or genetic factors affecting blood cell production.
How often is this test performed?
This test is not a routine screening test. It is typically ordered as part of a specific diagnostic evaluation for suspected blood disorders, often in conjunction with other tests.
Is there any risk or discomfort associated with this test?
The blood draw may cause mild discomfort or bruising at the site, but there are generally no serious risks. The manual counting process does not involve radiation or invasive procedures beyond the blood draw.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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