Platelet Blood Count (Manual Method)
This test measures the number of platelets (tiny blood cells that help prevent bleeding) in your blood using a manual counting method.
["Platelets help stop bleeding and support blood clotting; low levels may increase bleeding risk."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 778-1
- Short code
- Platelet # Bld Manual
- Synonyms
- Platelet # Bld 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 This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like easy bruising, prolonged bleeding from cuts, or unexplained fatigue. It’s also used to monitor conditions like blood disorders, chemotherapy side effects, or after treatments that affect platelet production.
How the Test Works
A small blood sample is drawn, and platelets are counted under a microscope by a trained technician. This method provides a detailed count without automated machines.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. Wear a short-sleeved shirt for easy access, and inform your provider about any medications or supplements you take, as they may affect results.
What to Expect During the Test
You’ll lie down while a healthcare professional inserts a needle into your arm to draw blood. The process takes about 5 minutes, and you may feel a brief pinch. The technician will count platelets manually after the sample is prepared.
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.
Low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia) may indicate conditions like leukemia, liver disease, or autoimmune disorders. High counts (thrombocytosis) can raise concerns about clotting risks, especially in people with heart disease or blood vessel issues. Results help guide treatment decisions.
Short name
Platelet Count
Frequently asked questions
What Does a Low Platelet Count Mean?
How Long Does It Take to Get Results?
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