When is a Platelet Blood Test Recommended?

New Delhi : A platelet blood test measures the average number of platelets in a person’s blood. Abnormal platelet levels, whether high or low, can increase the risk of excessive bleeding or clotting.

Platelets, or thrombocytes, are tiny blood cells crucial for blood clotting, which helps stop bleeding after you suffer an injury. A low platelet count can indicate conditions such as infections, cancer, or other health issues, while a high platelet count can increase the risk of stroke or blood clots. Each drop of blood contains tens of thousands of platelets. The platelet count test, also called the platelet blood test, is a quick and common procedure that determines the number of platelets in your blood. Continue reading to learn more about platelet count test price and significance. 

Why is a Platelet Blood Test Done?

A platelet count is primarily used to diagnose or monitor conditions that cause excessive clotting or bleeding. It is often included in a complete blood count, a test commonly performed during routine checkups. At Apollo 24|7, the platelet count test price is just ₹180*.

When is a Platelet Blood Test Recommended?

You may need a platelet blood test if you exhibit symptoms of having either too many or too few platelets.

Symptoms caused by extremely low platelets include:

• Nosebleeds

• Prolonged bleeding after a minor cut or injury

• Unexplained bruising

• Purplish spots on the skin, known as purpura, caused by bleeding under the skin

• Pinpoint-sized red spots on the skin, known as petechiae

• Heavy and/or prolonged menstrual periods

• Muscle or joint pain

• Blood in your urine, vomit, or bowel movements

• Weakness or dizziness

• Severe headache

Symptoms of too many platelets include:

• Headache

• Numbness of hands and feet

• Dizziness

• Leg swelling

• Weakness

• Shortness of breath

• Stroke

How is a Platelet Blood Test Done?

The process of obtaining blood for a platelet blood test only takes a few minutes. This test can be conducted at your healthcare provider's office, a lab, or a hospital, usually by a lab technician. Here are the steps a lab technician typically follows:

• Selects a vein on the inside of your arm, near your elbow.

• Puts a tourniquet around your upper arm. 

• Cleans the skin surrounding your vein.

• Inserts a needle into your vein. You might feel a light prick and some discomfort.

• Fills a collection tube with blood.

• Removes the needle and tourniquet.

• Applies a small bandage to your arm.

Ideal Platelet Count Results

Platelets are measured per microlitre of blood:

• Normal platelet count: 1,50,000-4,00,000 platelets per microlitre

• Low platelet count: Under 1,50,000 platelets per microlitre

• High platelet count: Over 4,50,000 platelets per microlitre

What Do Platelet Blood Test Results Indicate?

Low platelets can prevent blood from clotting properly. Causes may include:

• Bone marrow damage from cancer treatments such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy

• Certain cancers, such as lymphoma or leukaemia

• Enlarged spleen

• Specific medications such as aspirin

• Heavy alcohol consumption

• Immune thrombocytopenia (bruising or bleeding under the skin due to low platelets)

• Hemolytic uremic syndrome (a disease that destroys platelets)

• Severe bleeding after an injury

• Bacterial and viral infections

• Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (blood clots in small blood vessels throughout the body)

A high platelet count can lead to excessive clotting or bleeding if platelets interfere with clotting. Possible causes include:

• Infections

• Immune system problems

• Certain cancers

• Genetic issues affecting platelet production

Conclusion

A person's platelet levels can fluctuate with age, medication changes, acute injury, and deficiencies. However, excessively high or low platelet levels might indicate an underlying health condition, infection, or injury. Diagnosing a medical condition based solely on platelet count is not typically possible. If a platelet blood test shows abnormal platelet levels, then it is important to discuss further testing with a doctor. Informing the doctor about all additional symptoms can help guide the appropriate testing and diagnosis.