Book Platelet Count Test

The platelet count test is primarily a component of the complete blood count (CBC) test. It is accomplished in the following areas:

• Platelet count should be monitored in cases of low platelet count, such as dengue fever.
• To detect or diagnose a variety of illnesses and situations that might lead to blood clot formation issues.
• To rule out a bleeding illness, bone marrow disease, or an excessive clotting issue.

This test can help you keep track of your progress. If you have an underlying problem, are being treated for a platelet disorder, or are taking drugs that influence platelets, this test can be done.

Platelet Count is performed if you have signs and symptoms of low platelets or a bleeding problem, such as the following:

• Bruising that is unexplained or occurs frequently.
• Bleeding from a tiny cut or wound for an extended period.
• Several nosebleeds.
• Bleeding in the stomach and intestines (blood may be present in stool, which may be dark black).
• Menstrual bleeding is really heavy.
• Petechiae are little red spots on the skin that can resemble a rash.
• Purpura is a little purplish spot on the skin caused by bleeding beneath the epidermis.

However, if you have elevated platelets, you may not have any indications or symptoms, thus, the problem may only be discovered when a platelet count is performed as part of a health exam or for another illness like polycythemia, leukemia, etc.

Inform the doctor about any drugs you are currently taking. Other than that, no other preparations are usually desirable.

A blood sample is drawn from the patient’s arm by the healthcare professional. A dab of rubbing alcohol is used to disinfect the area from where the blood will be drawn. This is followed by inserting a tiny needle with a tube linked to it for blood collection. The needle is removed once enough blood has been taken for examination. A gauze pad is then placed over the wound.

The Platelet Count Test has no side effects or risks. You should, however, keep the following points in mind:

• Because the blood will be collected from a vein in the arm with a syringe, you should expect a tinge of pain and redness for a short time.
• To avoid infection, cover the patch with a cotton bud or a bandage.
• Lifting heavy items should be avoided for a few hours, but you’ll be able to resume normal activities as soon as the bleeding stops.

Thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) can be detected in the following conditions:

Prolonged bleeding
Poor clot retraction
Aplastic anemia (When your body stops making enough new blood cells)
Megaloblastic anemia (blood condition that occurs when the body’s red blood cells are insufficient)
Hypersplenism (overactive spleen)

Thrombocytosis (high platelet count) can be detected in the following conditions:

Polycythemia vera (a kind of cancer that affects the blood)
Following Splenectomy (a surgical procedure to remove your spleen)