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Platelet Dense Body Count in Whole Blood

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures the number of dense bodies within platelets, which are small organelles involved in platelet function and storage of certain substances.

Quick summary

["Dense bodies in platelets may relate to their activity and health, though their clinical relevance is not widely standardized."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
79768-8
Short code
Plt dense bodies Bld Ql EM
Synonyms
Plt dense bodies Bld Ql EM
Category
hematology
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
17
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
microscopy-electron
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 a Dense Body?

Platelets contain various internal structures, including dense granules (also called dense bodies). These granules store calcium, ATP, and other molecules critical for platelet activation and clotting. Dense bodies are particularly dense due to their high concentration of these substances.

Why Might This Test Be Ordered?

While dense body counts are not commonly ordered for routine health checks, they may be evaluated in specific research or specialized clinical contexts, such as studying platelet disorders, bleeding tendencies, or platelet storage pool dysfunctions. Your healthcare provider may request this test if symptoms like unexplained bruising, prolonged bleeding, or other platelet-related concerns are present.

How Is This Test Performed?

This test involves drawing a small sample of your whole blood, which is then analyzed under a microscope or through specialized imaging techniques to count the dense bodies within platelets. Results are typically reported as a count per platelet or platelet volume, though reference ranges are not universally established.

What Do Results Mean?

Interpreting dense body counts can be complex because there are no standardized reference ranges. Abnormal counts may suggest platelet dysfunction, storage pool defects, or other underlying conditions affecting platelet health. Your doctor will discuss findings in the context of your symptoms and medical history.

Reference range

NCBI: NSE 0-17 ng/mLN/A

Specimen: whole-blood

No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Platelet Dense Body Count (bld)

Frequently asked questions

What causes changes in platelet dense bodies?
Changes in platelet dense bodies may arise from conditions affecting platelet production (e.g., myeloproliferative disorders), storage (e.g., platelet storage pool disease), or activation (e.g., inflammatory states). Certain medications or exposure to toxins could also influence their presence. This test is rarely used to identify specific causes, so results are typically evaluated in conjunction with clinical findings.
Can this test help diagnose a bleeding disorder?
No, dense body counts alone are not used to diagnose bleeding disorders. Platelet function tests (e.g., bleeding time, platelet aggregation studies) or other coagulation screens are more commonly employed. If dense body abnormalities are found, they may prompt further investigation into platelet-related conditions, but they are not a standalone diagnostic tool.
Is this test painful or invasive?
The procedure involves a standard venipuncture (blood draw) and is generally mild discomfort. The sample is processed quickly, and dense body counts are analyzed in specialized labs. Pain or complications are rare, but always discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider before the test.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy