Platelet Blood Count with Complete Blood Count (CBC) Analysis
This test measures your blood’s red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, along with detailed platelet function analysis. It helps assess your overall blood health and detect conditions like anemia, infections, or bleeding disorders.
["A CBC with platelet function testing can reveal hidden blood issues that may not show up in standard blood tests alone."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 55802-3
- Short code
- Platelet # BldCo Est
- Synonyms
- Platelet # BldCo Est
- 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
- estimate
- 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
What Does a CBC with Platelet Testing Include?
A standard CBC provides counts for red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and hemoglobin levels. The platelet count measures the number of tiny blood cells responsible for clotting. This test often includes additional platelet-related metrics like size, distribution width, and sometimes functional assays to evaluate platelet activity.
Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like easy bruising, prolonged bleeding, fatigue, or signs of infection. It’s also used before surgeries, during chemotherapy, or if you have conditions like leukemia, thrombocytopenia, or autoimmune disorders.
Common Conditions Affecting Platelets
Low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia) can occur due to bone marrow issues, medications, or autoimmune diseases. High platelet counts (thrombocytosis) may signal infections, inflammation, or underlying cancers. Abnormal platelet function can lead to bleeding disorders or clotting risks.
How Is This Test Performed?
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is analyzed in a lab to count cells and assess platelet characteristics. Some tests may require additional specialized equipment or procedures to evaluate platelet function.
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.
Clinical Significance: Detecting Blood Disorders Early
Short name
CBC with Platelet Count
Frequently asked questions
How often will I need to retest?
What do my platelet results mean?
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