A platelet count test is nothing but a laboratory test that aims to analyze and estimate platelets levels present in the human body. The platelets are also called thrombocytes. They are small, round cell particles that flow in your blood. MPV blood test measures the normal size of the platelets. It is necessary for the creation of blood clots, and masses of blood the body forms to stop bleeding.
There are three main components of the blood:
- White blood cells
- Red blood cells
- Platelets
Platelet count testing can find out when platelet levels are high and low. Both too high and too low have different impacts on our bodies. For instance, too many platelets can be a sign of blood clots. And too many platelets can be a sign of infections and serious diseases like cancer.
Doctors and healthcare workers do platelet count testing to assess the ability and inability of your blood to clot.
Generally, this platelet count blood test is done as a part of a complete blood count test, which discloses significant information about the number of different blood cells in the body.
What is a platelet count test?
Platelets also go by the name of thrombocytes are essential cells that help support the aspect of blood clotting. Essentially there are two fundamental types of platelets tests which are conducted:
- Platelet function tests
- Platelet count test
In this article, we are talking about platelet count tests. The number of platelets present in the blood is measured by a platelet count test.
Thrombocytopenia is the term used for a lower platelet count. During this condition, the individual bleeds excessively when they experience a cut or a minor injury. Whereas thrombocytosis is the term used for a higher platelet count. During this condition, the individual concerned experiences more frequent blood clots.
What is the purpose of the platelet count test?
The main objective of the platelet count test is to analyze your body’s ability and inability to clot. It is conducted or asked by the doctor as a part of a regular blood test. Platelet count tests can also help you to know if there is any disorder in platelets. A lab test called platelet count is mostly done with an MVP test. MPV blood test is usually done to find out any issues related to blood.
Regular test of platelet count with MPV blood tests can allow doctors to diagnose the effectiveness of medications which can increase or decrease the ability to form normal blood clots.
The Need and Requirement for a Platelet Test?
An individual may require a platelet count test and or/ mean platelet volume (MPV blood test) if the symptoms listed below are being experienced:
Conventionally few platelets
- Nosebleeds
- Unknown bruises
- Have petechiae
- Heavy menstrual periods
- Prolonged bleeding than usual after a minor injury or cut.
- Blood in the urine or stool
Conventionally many platelets
- Headache
- Weakness
- Numbing sensation in the feet and hands.
- Dizziness
- Chest pain
Some other cases where you need an MPV blood test or platelet count test are when you are about to go through a critical surgery. It is done to find out the chances of blood flow during the surgery. Another case is when you are going under medication to reduce clotting. Doctors do platelet count tests to find the changes or effectiveness of the medicine on your body.
How to prepare for a platelet count?
Generally, there is nothing much to prepare for a platelet count. However, you should always ask your doctor or healthcare workers about it. They may ask you to fast with water and food before the MPV blood test. And if you are under some medications like aspirin then you need to stop before taking this test.
Understanding the platelet count results
The results of the platelet count test come out within 24 to 48 hours. Generally, platelets are estimated as per the microliter of blood.
- Anything between 150,000 to 400,000 platelets in a microliter of blood is considered to be normal.
- Anything below 150,000 platelets in a microliter of blood is considered to be low.
- Anything more than 450,000 platelets in a microliter of blood is considered to be too high.
If you have low platelets, the following are the possible issues associated with you:
- Cancer
- Because of medication
- High consumption of alcohol
- Frequent bleeding after a minor injury or a cut
- Bacterial infections
- Bone marrow damage
- A disease called hemolytic uremic syndrome that harms the platelets
If you have a high platelet count, the following are the possible issues associated with you:
- Some sort of blood Infections
- A rare genetic issue that has taken over platelet production.
- Certain cancer
- Inflammatory disease
- Medication reaction
- Physical activity
- Severe blood loss
After the platelet count test, your doctor may ask for some follow-up tests depending on the condition you have. The follow-up tests may include a complete blood count including an MPV blood test, peripheral blood smear, and HIV or HCV test.
