Platelet Count with Automated Blood Differential (Automated Hematology Profile)
This test measures the number of platelets in your blood and evaluates the proportions of different white blood cell types. It helps assess immune function, blood clotting risks, and potential infections.
["Helps diagnose infections, blood disorders, or immune system issues by examining blood cell counts and types."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 56020-1
- Short code
- PA Bld Thromb ATP secr 5 U/mL
- Synonyms
- PA Bld Thromb ATP secr 5 U/mL
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- aggregometry-thrombin-induced-atp-secretion-u-ml-post-heparin-neutralization
- 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 doctor may order this test to check for conditions like low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia), infections (e.g., sepsis), or blood disorders (e.g., leukemia). It also helps monitor immune responses or evaluate blood clotting risks before 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 blood. If you’re nervous, let your healthcare provider know—they can help make it more comfortable.
What the Results Mean
Results show absolute counts of platelets and percentages of white blood cell types (neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, basophils). Abnormal counts may signal infections, clotting disorders, or immune problems.
Common Conditions Linked to Results
Low platelet counts or abnormal WBC distributions might indicate infections, autoimmune diseases, or blood cancers. High neutrophil counts could signal inflammation or infection, while low lymphocytes may suggest immune suppression.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is critical for diagnosing and managing conditions like leukemia, immune deficiencies, or bleeding disorders. It also guides treatment decisions for chemotherapy, infections, or pre-surgery evaluations.
Short name
Platelet & WBC Differential
Frequently asked questions
What does a ‘differential’ mean in this test?
How often should I get this test?
Can diet affect my platelet or WBC 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