Platelet Count (Blood)
This test measures the number of platelets in your blood, which are tiny cells that help prevent bleeding and promote clotting. Low or high platelet counts may indicate health concerns.
["Platelets help stop bleeding and support blood clotting—your count helps doctors monitor your risk of bleeding or clotting issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 34977-9
- Short code
- Platelet Gentyp Bld
- Synonyms
- Platelet Gentyp Bld
- 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
- 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 bleeding disorders, clotting problems, or infections. It’s often part of a general blood test (CBC) or performed if you have 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 blood. It usually takes a few minutes, and you may feel a brief pinch. Avoid heavy exercise or aspirin/ibuprofen 24 hours before if your doctor advises it.
What the Results Mean
Results are reported as the number of platelets per microliter (µL) of blood. While reference ranges vary by lab, very low counts (thrombocytopenia) may raise concerns about bleeding risks, while very high counts (thrombocytosis) could signal clotting risks or other conditions.
Common Conditions Affecting Platelets
Low platelet counts may occur due to medications, infections, autoimmune diseases, or conditions like leukemia. High counts could result from infections, inflammation, or certain cancers. Symptoms vary but may include bruising, fatigue, or nosebleeds.
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.
Platelet counts are critical for diagnosing and managing bleeding disorders (e.g., hemophilia), clotting disorders, or conditions like ITP (immune thrombocytopenic purpura). Regular monitoring helps adjust treatments like steroids or blood transfusions if needed.
Short name
Platelet Count
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get my platelet count results?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
What if my platelet count is outside the normal range?
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