Platelet Count (Peripheral Blood)
This test measures the number of platelets, a type of blood cell that helps prevent bleeding and promotes clotting. Platelets are crucial for healthy blood circulation and wound healing.
["Platelets help your blood clot and prevent excessive bleeding."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 54404-9
- Short code
- Pooled Platelet Conc Gvn BPU
- Synonyms
- Pooled Platelet Conc Gvn BPU
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- 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
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your doctor may order this test to check for conditions affecting platelet production, destruction, or function. Common reasons include unexplained bruising, bleeding, or signs of clotting disorders. It may also be used during pregnancy, before surgeries, or to monitor treatments like chemotherapy.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll typically have a small needle inserted into a vein (usually in your arm) to draw a blood sample. This is usually quick and painless. Avoid eating or drinking anything for a few hours before the test if instructed, but check with your doctor first.
How the Test Works
The blood sample is sent to a lab where machines count and analyze your platelets. This test is a quick and common part of routine blood work, often done as part of a complete blood count (CBC).
What the Results Mean
Results are usually reported as a number of platelets per microliter (µL) of blood. Very high or very low platelet counts can signal underlying health issues, but exact values depend on your overall health and medical history.
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: Platelets play a vital role in blood clotting. Low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia) can increase bleeding risk, while high counts (thrombocytosis) may raise clotting risks. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Short name
Platelet Level
Frequently asked questions
What causes low platelet counts?
What causes high platelet counts?
Do I need to prepare for 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