A Platelet test counts the number of platelets (thrombocytes) in the blood. These small blood cells, which resemble tiny plates under a microscope, are vital for blood clotting, stopping bleeding after an injury by forming clots. Doctors may order a Platelet test during routine physical exams or if there is a suspicion of conditions like thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) or thrombocytosis (high platelet count). This test primarily serves to monitor or diagnose disorders associated with excessive bleeding or clotting and is frequently part of a complete blood count in standard medical checkups. It also assesses platelet function in complex surgeries such as cardiac bypass, which carries a higher risk of bleeding, and evaluates patients with a history of bleeding disorders before surgery. The test is used to monitor individuals on blood-thinning medications, which reduce clotting in those at risk for heart attacks or strokes. In addition to this, Platelet Count testing is particularly important for dengue patients, as the virus can lower platelet counts. Regular Platelet Count tests for dengue patients help predict and follow recovery from dengue fever (DF), dengue haemorrhagic fever (DHF), and dengue shock syndrome (DSS), influencing treatment options.

Living in Hyderabad and needing a Platelet Count test as ordered by your doctor for a routine checkup or other critical reasons? It is essential to get tested without delay. Book a Platelet Count test in Hyderabad for yourself or a loved one now.

Below is an outline of the test's preparation:

Prerequisites

Fasting is not necessary for the Platelet Count test.

Best Time to Get Tested

You can take the Platelet test at any time of the day.

Who Should Get a Platelet Test

This test is recommended for those with symptoms of platelet deficiency, such as prolonged bleeding from minor cuts, or of excess platelets, such as numbness in the hands and feet. It is also crucial for individuals scheduled for complex surgeries or those using medication to reduce blood clotting.

Cautions Before Taking a Platelet Test

No special preparations are necessary before taking a Platelet Count test at home.

If symptoms suggest an abnormal platelet count (high or low), a Platelet Count in Hyderabad is crucial. The following are common symptoms of a low platelet count:

• Bleeding for a long time (following minor cuts or injuries)

• Bruises (more frequent than usual)

• Bleeding from the nose

• Small red spots on the skin

• Purple patches on the skin

• Blood in urine, stool, or vomit

• Swollen or bleeding gums

• Longer or heavier than usual menstrual bleeding

The following are common symptoms of a high platelet count:

• A numbing sensation in the hands and feet

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• General weakness

• Bruises (that are formed easily)

• Headaches

• Nose, gum and mouth bleeds

• Stomach or intestinal bleeding

This test is also important for patients undergoing complex surgeries like cardiac bypass or trauma surgery, or those on blood-thinning medications. It is also useful for monitoring conditions that lead to excessive bleeding or clotting.

The result of a Platelet Count Blood test is given below:

Normal range: 150-450 [10^3/µL]

Low Count

Reasons for a low platelet count include:

• Drinking excess alcohol

• Severe bleeding following an injury

• Dengue fever

• Bacterial or viral infections

• Certain medications like antibiotics

• Diseases in which the body attacks its own healthy cells like rheumatoid arthritis

• Contact with harmful chemicals like arsenic

• Blood disorders like thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura

• Blood cancers such as leukaemia

• Genetic disorders such as Von Willebrand disease

• Treatment for cancers such as chemotherapy

Diminished platelet supply, such as from conditions like haemolytic uremic syndrome that destroys platelets, can lead to a low platelet count. Additionally, platelets may sometimes get trapped in the spleen, preventing them from entering the bloodstream.

High Count

Reasons for a high platelet count include:

• Bacterial or viral infections

• Reactive Thrombocytosis

• An injury

• Undergoing treatment for vitamin B12 deficiency

• Inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis

• Failure of kidney

• Certain medications like adrenalin

• Spleen removal

• Blood disorders like anaemia

• Certain surgical procedures like abdominal surgery

• Certain cancers such as breast cancer

A high platelet count may arise from a hereditary disorder linked to a JAK2 gene mutation, prompting the bone marrow to overproduce platelets progressively.