Platelet Count
Definition
A platelet count is a diagnostic test that determines the number of platelets in the patient's blood. Platelets, which are also called thrombocytes, are small disk-shaped blood cells produced in the bone marrow and involved in the process of blood clotting. There are normally between 150,000–450,000 platelets in each micro-liter of blood. Low platelet counts or abnormally shaped platelets are associated with bleeding disorders. High platelet counts or low platelet counts sometimes indicate disorders of the bone marrow.
Purpose
The primary functions of a platelet count are to assist in the diagnosis of bleeding disorders and to monitor patients who are being treated for any disease involving bone marrow failure. Patients who have leukemia, polycythemia vera, or aplastic anemia...
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