Testing for platelet disorders
A normalplatelet countis between 150,000 to 450,000 per microliter (mcL) of blood.
This range is generally applicable to all adults.
However, research has suggested that normal platelet counts might be a little different in men and women.
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Age might also affect what is considered a normal platelet count because these cells tend to decrease over time.
This article covers normal platelet count ranges, as well as abnormal ones.
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What Is a Healthy Platelet Count?
Research has shown that platelet counts are related to genetics, ethnicity, and age.
What Does a High Platelet Count Mean?
A platelet count over 450,000/mcL is calledthrombocytosis.
A higher-than-normal platelet count can cause blood clots to form and lead to a condition calledacquired von Willebrand disease.
In this disease, the platelets fail to interact properly with the blood vessel wall at sites of injury.
The failure to seal the site of injury leads to bleeding.
However, many people who have a high platelet count do not have symptoms at all.
What Does a Low Platelet Count Mean?
A platelet level of less than 150,000/mcL is considered low.
In severe cases, internal and external bleeding can be significant.
A person’s risk of bleeding starts to go up when their platelet count is less than normal.
Is Your Platelet Count Normal?
The size of platelets is referred to as themean platelet volume(MPV).
Like your platelet count, this information can be useful in helping identify a health concern.
If the MPV is higher than normal, it means the platelets are larger than normal.
An elevated MPV can be sparked by:
Alow MPVmeans the platelets are smaller than normal.
A decreased MPV can be because of:
Can COVID-19 Affect Your Platelet Count?
Some patients with COVID-19 have abnormal platelet counts.
Summary
Platelets are cells made by the bone marrow that help clot your blood.
If your body is making too many platelets or too few platelets, it can lead to health problems.
Having abnormally high platelet counts or low platelet counts can also be a sign of diseases and conditions.
it’s possible for you to find out if your platelet count is normal by having a blood test.
Your provider can let you know what your results mean and if you need treatment.
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