Platelet Count (Manual Blood Count)
This test measures the number of platelets (thrombocytes) in your blood, which are essential for clotting. Platelets help prevent excessive bleeding by forming clumps (clots) when blood vessels are injured.
["Platelets are crucial for healthy blood clotting and overall circulation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 74464-9
- Short code
- Platelet # BldC Manual
- Synonyms
- Platelet # BldC Manual
- 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
- manual-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 Is This Test Done?
Doctors may order a platelet count to check for conditions affecting blood clotting, such as bleeding disorders, clotting disorders, or infections. It can also help monitor treatments for conditions like leukemia or autoimmune diseases.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into a vein (usually in your arm) to draw a blood sample. The test is quick and usually painless. If you’re on blood-thinning medication, let your doctor know before the test.
What the Results Mean
A platelet count is typically reported as the number of platelets per microliter (µL) of blood. Very low or very high counts may signal underlying health issues. Your doctor will interpret results in relation to your overall health and symptoms.
Common Conditions Affecting Platelets
Low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia) can cause easy bruising, prolonged bleeding, or frequent nosebleeds. High platelet counts (thrombocytosis) may increase the risk of blood clots. Both conditions can result from infections, medications, or underlying diseases like cancer.
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
Frequently asked questions
How Often Should I Get This Test?
What Are the Normal Platelet Count Ranges?
Can Platelet Counts Change with Diet or Lifestyle?
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