Know Your Blood Parameter : Platelet Count (PLT)
- Zeenat Khalil
- 5 days ago
- 1 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
1. Parameter Name
Platelet Count (PLT)
2. Test Type
Blood
3. Normal Range
Adults: 150,000 – 450,000 platelets/µL
Children: Similar to adults (may vary slightly by lab)
4. High Levels Indicate
Known as thrombocytosis, it may be caused by infections, inflammation, cancer, iron-deficiency anemia, or post-splenectomy.
5. Low Levels Indicate
Called thrombocytopenia, it may result from dengue, leukemia, autoimmune diseases, viral infections, bone marrow disorders, or medications.
6. Why It's Tested To assess blood's ability to clot, monitor bleeding disorders, or track responses to treatments like chemotherapy.
7. Associated Symptoms (if abnormal)
Low: Easy bruising, bleeding gums, prolonged bleeding.
High: Headache, dizziness, risk of clot formation (rare).
8. What To Do If Abnormal
Repeat tests, review medications, check for infections or inflammation. May need further tests like peripheral smear, bone marrow biopsy, or iron studies.
9. Common Conditions Related
Dengue, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), leukemia, iron-deficiency anemia, myeloproliferative disorders.
10. Nutrition or Lifestyle Connection
Boost with foods rich in folate, vitamin B12, and iron (green leafy vegetables, beetroot, pomegranate). Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol.
11. References (APA Format)
MedlinePlus. (2023). Platelet count. U.S. National Library of Medicine. https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/platelet-count/
Mayo Clinic. (2022). Thrombocytopenia (low platelet count). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/thrombocytopenia
Pagana, K. D., & Pagana, T. J. (2021). Mosby’s diagnostic and laboratory test reference (15th ed.). Elsevier.
American Society of Hematology. (2021). Platelet disorders. https://www.hematology.org/education/patients/blood-disorders
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