Platelet Count (Automated Optical Counting)
This test measures the number of platelets in your blood, which are tiny cells that help prevent bleeding and promote clotting. Platelets are crucial for maintaining healthy blood vessel function.
["Platelets help stop bleeding and support blood clotting—low or high counts may signal health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 97995-5
- Short code
- Platelet # Bld Auto Optical
- Synonyms
- Platelet # Bld Auto Optical
- 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-optical
- 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 Is This Test Done?
Your doctor may order a platelet count to check for bleeding disorders, clotting issues, or conditions like anemia, leukemia, or infections. It’s often part of a routine blood test or screening for symptoms like easy bruising, excessive bleeding, or unexplained fatigue.
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 lab setting. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know before the procedure.
What the Results Mean
Platelet counts are measured in thousands per microliter (thousands/µL). A result outside the normal range may indicate an underlying health issue, but your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
Common Conditions Linked to Platelet Counts
Low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia) can cause bleeding problems, while high counts (thrombocytosis) may increase clotting risk. Conditions like kidney disease, infections, or certain medications can affect platelet levels.
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 Blood Count
Frequently asked questions
What causes a low platelet count?
What causes a high platelet count?
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