Platelet Count (Peripheral Blood)
This test measures the number of platelets in your blood, which are tiny cells that help prevent bleeding and promote clotting.
["Platelets play a critical role in blood clotting and preventing excessive bleeding."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 51884-5
- Short code
- Num units trans pooled platelets
- Synonyms
- Num units trans pooled platelets
- 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 conditions like low or high platelet levels, which can cause bleeding problems, easy bruising, or an increased risk of blood clots. It’s also used to monitor treatments for blood disorders or after certain medical procedures.
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 a blood sample. The test is quick and usually done in a doctor’s office or lab.
What the Results Mean
Results are typically reported as the number of platelets per microliter (µL) of blood. While specific ranges vary by lab, very low counts (thrombocytopenia) or very high counts (thrombocytosis) may signal underlying health concerns.
Common Conditions Affecting Platelets
Low platelet counts can occur due to medications, infections, autoimmune diseases, or conditions like leukemia. High platelet counts may result from infections, inflammation, or certain cancers.
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 bleeding disorders, clotting risks, and blood cell disorders. Abnormal levels may require further testing or treatment to address the underlying cause.
Short name
Platelet Count
Frequently asked questions
What causes a low platelet count?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink 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