Platelet Blood Count with Automated Differential Analysis
This test measures the number of platelets in your blood and evaluates the proportions of different white blood cell types (neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils) using automated technology.
["Helps assess blood health and detect infections, bleeding disorders, or immune system issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 107193-5
- Short code
- Platelet # Bld Auto
- Synonyms
- Platelet # Bld Auto
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- 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
- Method
- automated-count
- CPT
- 85049
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003003
- 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
Doctors order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions like low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia), high platelet counts (thrombocytosis), infections, inflammatory diseases, or blood disorders. It may also be used before surgeries or treatments that affect the immune or blood systems.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may eat and drink normally. If you’re on blood-thinning medications, check with your doctor first, as they may need to adjust timing or dosage.
During the Test
A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually takes only a few seconds. The blood is then sent to a lab for automated analysis.
What the Results Mean
Results provide two main pieces of information: platelet count and white blood cell differential. Platelet counts below normal may indicate bleeding risks, while elevated counts could signal infections or clotting disorders. Differential counts help identify specific types of white blood cells that may be elevated or low due to illness or immune response.
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.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Platelet & Differential Count
Frequently asked questions
What causes low platelet counts?
What causes high platelet counts?
How often should I get 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