Peripheral Blood Platelet Count with Qualitative Microscopic Examination (Smear Analysis)
This test measures your blood’s platelet count and examines a sample of your red and white blood cells under a microscope to check for abnormalities.
["Helps diagnose bleeding disorders, infections, or other blood-related conditions by combining a count with visual inspection of cells."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 18312-9
- Short code
- Platelet Satel Bld Ql Smear
- Synonyms
- Platelet Satel Bld Ql Smear
- 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
- microscopy-light
- CPT
- 83550
- 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 Is Measured?
Your doctor will take a small sample of your blood, which is then separated into components. The first part is analyzed to count your platelets, red blood cells, and white blood cells. The second part is spread thinly on a microscope slide for closer inspection.
Platelet Count
Platelets are tiny blood cells that help stop bleeding. This test checks how many platelets are in your blood. Low or high counts can signal issues like bleeding disorders, infections, or other health problems.
Blood Smear Examination
The smear test looks at the shape, size, and appearance of your blood cells under a microscope. It helps identify abnormalities like abnormal platelet shapes, signs of infection, or other blood cell disorders.
When Is This Test Needed?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like easy bruising, excessive bleeding, frequent infections, or if they suspect a blood disorder. It’s also used to monitor certain treatments or conditions like leukemia or anemia.
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 Count + Blood Smear Check
Frequently asked questions
Why might my platelet count be low?
What does a blood smear tell me about my blood?
How long does it take to get results?
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