A Platelet test measures the number of platelets (thrombocytes) in the blood, named for their plate-like appearance under a microscope. These small blood cells are crucial for blood clotting, which is the process of producing clots to stop bleeding after an injury. Changes in platelet counts, such as thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) or thrombocytosis (high platelet count), may prompt a doctor to order Platelet testing in addition to routine examinations. This test primarily monitors or diagnoses disorders linked to excessive bleeding or clotting and is often part of a complete blood count in regular medical exams. Additionally, it evaluates platelet function in complex surgeries, such as cardiac bypass, which has a higher bleeding risk, and assesses patients with a history of bleeding disorders before surgery. It also monitors individuals on blood-thinning medications prescribed to reduce clotting risks in those prone to heart attacks or strokes. Platelet Count testing is also crucial for dengue patients, as the virus often decreases platelet counts. Regular Platelet Count tests for dengue patients can predict and track recovery from dengue fever (DF), dengue haemorrhagic fever (DHF), and dengue shock syndrome (DSS), guiding treatment decisions.

If you reside in Mumbai and your doctor has ordered a Platelet Count test for a routine checkup or any of the aforementioned reasons, it is crucial to get tested promptly. Schedule a Platelet Count test in Mumbai for yourself or a loved one today.

The following is an overview of the test's preparation:

Prerequisites

Fasting is not needed for the Platelet Count test.

Best Time to Get Tested

The Platelet test can be done at any time of the day.

Who Should Get a Platelet Test

Anyone showing symptoms of excess platelets, such as numbness in the hands and feet, or a deficiency of platelets, such as bleeding for a long time after minor cuts can take this test. A Platelet test is also necessary for those who are using medication to reduce blood clotting or are scheduled to undergo complex surgical procedures or.

Cautions Before Taking Platelet Test

No special cautions are needed before taking a Platelet Count test at home.

A Platelet Count in Mumbai is essential if symptoms indicate an abnormal platelet count, whether high or low. Frequently encountered symptoms of a low platelet count include:

• Bleeding for an extended time (following minor cuts or injuries)

• Swollen or bleeding gums

• Bruises (more frequent than usual)

• Bleeding from the nose

• Blood in urine, stool, or vomit

• Small red spots on the skin

• Purple patches on the skin

• Longer or heavier than usual menstrual bleeding

Common symptoms of a high platelet count include:

• Headaches

• Dizziness

• Bruises (that are formed easily)

• Lightheadedness

• A numbing sensation in the hands and feet

• General weakness

• Nose, gum and mouth bleeds

• Stomach or intestinal bleeding

Platelet tests are also necessary for individuals undergoing complex surgeries, such as trauma surgery or cardiac bypass, or those taking blood-thinning medications. Additionally, this test can monitor conditions that cause 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:

• Bacterial or viral infections

• Severe bleeding following an injury

• Drinking excess alcohol

• Certain medications like antibiotics

• Dengue fever

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

• Blood disorders like thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura

• Genetic disorders such as Von Willebrand disease

• Contact with harmful chemicals like arsenic

• Blood cancers such as leukaemia

• Treatment for cancers such as chemotherapy

A low platelet count can also result from a reduced platelet supply due to conditions like haemolytic uremic syndrome, which depletes or destroys platelets. Additionally, the spleen may sometimes trap platelets, preventing them from circulating in the bloodstream.

High Count

Reasons for a high platelet count include:

• An injury

• Bacterial or viral infections

• Reactive Thrombocytosis

• Inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis

• Failure of kidney

• Certain medications like adrenalin

• Undergoing treatment for vitamin B12 deficiency

• Blood disorders like anaemia

• Certain surgical procedures like abdominal surgery

• Spleen removal

• Certain cancers such as breast cancer

A hereditary disorder caused by a JAK2 gene mutation can lead to a high platelet count, with the bone marrow gradually producing an excessive number of platelets over time.