Platelets (thrombocytes) are small blood cells that help stop bleeding by forming clots.

A platelet count is part of the Complete Blood Count (CBC) panel.

Clinical uses include:

Detecting thrombocytopenia (low platelet count).

Detecting thrombocytosis (high platelet count).

Monitoring patients with bleeding disorders, bone marrow disease, or after chemotherapy.

Supporting diagnosis of conditions like immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), leukemia, aplastic anemia, and infections.

Analyte: Platelet concentration in blood.

Normal Range: Approximately 150,000 – 450,000 platelets/µL of blood (varies slightly by lab).

Low Platelet Count (Thrombocytopenia): May indicate bone marrow failure, autoimmune disease, viral infections, or drug effects.

High Platelet Count (Thrombocytosis): May suggest inflammation, iron deficiency, myeloproliferative disorders, or post-surgery recovery.

Clinical Use:

Evaluates clotting ability.

Detects bleeding/clotting disorders.

Monitors treatment response in hematologic and systemic conditions.