Platelet count Test
A platelet count is a blood test that measures the amount of platelets in the blood. Platelets are essential for blood clotting. Bleeding occurs when one of the blood vessels is injured. The platelets will clot (clump together) to plug the blood vessel hole and stop the bleeding. A healthy adult's platelet count ranges from 150,000 to 450,000 platelets per microliter of blood.
A low platelet count, also known as thrombocytopenia, can be caused by a number of underlying medical disorders, such as anemia,bone marrow illnesses, viral infections, or certain medications. A high platelet count, also called thrombocytosis, can indicate underlying medical conditions such as cancer,inflammation, or liver disease.
It's important to remember that a single platelet count test may not provide an accurate picture of a person's health. Further testing and examination may be required to discover the cause of an abnormal platelet count.
What is the purpose of the platelet count test?
The platelet count is used for several purposes in medical diagnosis and treatment:
Monitoring treatment effectiveness
Platelet count is used to monitor the effectiveness of treatments that can affect platelet production, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
Diagnosing bleeding or clotting disorders
Abnormal platelet counts can indicate bleeding or clotting disorders, such as idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) or von Willebrand disease.
Assessing bone marrow function
Platelet count can be used to assess the health and function of the bone marrow, which is the main producer of platelets in the body.
Evaluating liver function
Platelet count can also be used as an indirect measure of liver function, as the liver plays a role in platelet production and removal.
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Monitoring viral infections
Some viral infections, such as dengue fever or hepatitis, can cause changes in platelet count, and the test can be used to monitor these infections.
It's important to note that platelet count is just one of many tests used to diagnose and evaluate medical conditions. Other additional tests and evaluations may be required to identify the reason for an abnormal platelet count.
Symptoms of Low Platelet Count
- Excessive Bleeding: You may experience prolonged bleeding from minor cuts or wounds.
- Frequent Nosebleeds or Gum Bleeding: Bleeding from the nose or gums can occur unexpectedly.
- Fatigue or Weakness: A drop in platelets can leave you feeling unusually tired or weak.
If you notice these signs, it's essential to consult a doctor for further details and appropriate tests to determine the cause and receive proper treatment.
What happens during a platelet count?
Blood collection for a platelet count blood test, only requires a brief period of time. The test can be performed at a hospital, lab, or the office of the healthcare provider. Blood samples are often taken by a specialist referred to as a lab technician. Here are the things which are done by the lab technicians:
- Choose a vein on the inside of the arm, near your elbow.
- Wraps a tourniquet (tight band or cord) around your upper arm. The tourniquet forces blood into the veins, making it easier to draw blood.
- Cleans the skin around the vein.
- Inserts a needle into the vein. Patients may feel a light stick and mild pain.
- Fills a collection tube with blood.
- Removes the needle and tourniquet.
- Apply a tiny bandage to the arm.
- A healthcare provider places the blood in a small machine. The machine counts platelets and other blood cells in about a minute.
A blood smear may be performed in some cases by the provider. This is an extra test that uses a microscope to examine a small blood sample. A blood smear is used to determine the size and shape of blood cells.
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How to prepare for the platelet count?
Here are some steps one can take to prepare for a platelet count:
Fasting
You may be asked to fast before the test, usually for about 8 hours. This helps ensure accurate results, as food and drink affect the platelet count.
Medications
You may be asked to stop taking certain medications that can affect platelet counts, such as aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), for a period of time
Platelet Count Test Procedure
The platelet count test procedure and platelet count causes is simple and involves drawing a blood sample. Here’s how it’s done:
- A healthcare provider will clean your arm. The process typically takes just a few minutes.
- After the sample is taken, the blood is placed in a machine that counts the platelets and other blood cells.
- In some cases, a blood smear is also done to examine the size and shape of the blood cells.
Are there any risks with a platelet count test?
A platelet count is a basic and common test. There are no substantial risks. There may be some bleeding where the needle enters the vein. One may also notice some light bruising or pain in the arm.
Common Aftereffects of Needle Insertion:
- Mild bruising or swelling at the needle site
- Pain when the needle is inserted, which is usually brief. These are normal and should resolve quickly.
What do platelet count results mean?
The results of a platelet count test show the number of platelets in an individual's blood, measured in platelets per microliter of blood.
- Abnormal platelet count results can mean different things, depending on whether the count is too high or too low.
- Low platelet count, also known as thrombocytopenia, can be a sign of many underlying medical conditions, such as anemia, bone marrow disorders, viral infections, or certain medications. A low platelet count can also increase the risk of bleeding and bruising.
- A high platelet count can indicate the presence of underlying medical disorders such as cancer, inflammation, or liver disease. High platelet count can also increase the risk of blood clots.
