CBC system

Platelet Count

Platelets

The cells that initiate blood clotting.

What is it

Platelet Count — in plain English.

Platelets are cell fragments essential to blood clotting. The count measures the number of platelets per unit volume of blood.

Why it's measured

What Platelets can reveal.

Platelet counts have been used in evaluating clotting risk and certain blood disorders in research and clinical practice.

Reference range

Where most laboratories draw the standard line.

Standard laboratory reference

150 – 450 thousand/μL

Reference ranges vary by laboratory. Your individual reference range will appear on your test report and should be interpreted by your physician in the context of your overall health profile.

What results may indicate

Higher vs. lower Platelets — at a high level.

Elevated

Has been associated with inflammation and certain blood disorders in research literature.

Lower

Has been associated with bleeding risk and certain conditions in research literature.

These associations are general. They are not a personal diagnosis or prediction. Discuss your individual results with your physician in the context of your full health profile.

When it's measured

When Platelets is typically run.

Part of standard CBC.

Related markers

Often measured alongside Platelets.

Measured in

Platelets is one of 160 biomarkers in the Apex Panel.

A complete look at your heart, hormones, metabolism, inflammation, and longevity systems — drawn at Quest or LabCorp, reviewed by a U.S.-licensed physician.

Explore the Apex Panel
160 biomarkers13 body systemsPhysician-reviewed
Back to all biomarkers

This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Lab results alone are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition and do not replace the advice of a healthcare provider. OPTML does not offer medical advice, a diagnosis, medical treatment, or any form of medical opinion.