Platelet Count (Per Microliter of Whole Blood)
This test measures the number of platelets in your blood, which are tiny cells that help prevent bleeding by clotting blood vessels. Platelets play a key role in healing cuts and bruises.
["Platelets help stop bleeding and support wound healing."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 51872-0
- Short code
- Num units trans platelet conc
- Synonyms
- Num units trans platelet conc
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- 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
- CPT
- 85049
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003003
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your doctor may order a platelet count to check for bleeding disorders, infections, or conditions that affect blood cell production, such as anemia or certain cancers. It can also help diagnose or monitor conditions like thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) or thrombocytosis (high platelet count).
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a small needle inserted into a vein in your arm, and a few drops of blood will be drawn into a test tube. The process usually takes a few minutes.
What Happens During the Test?
The blood sample is sent to a lab where it is analyzed using an automated machine that counts the number of platelets in your blood. This test is quick and painless.
What Are the Possible Results?
Results are typically reported as the number of platelets per microliter (µL) of blood. While specific reference ranges can vary by lab, very low or very high platelet counts may signal underlying health issues that need further evaluation.
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.
Platelet counts are crucial for diagnosing and managing conditions affecting blood clotting. Low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia) can lead to excessive bleeding, while high platelet counts (thrombocytosis) may increase the risk of blood clots. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your symptoms and overall health.
Short name
Platelet Count
Frequently asked questions
What does a low platelet count mean?
What does a high platelet count mean?
Can lifestyle changes affect platelet counts?
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