Platelet Count

Also known as: PLT, Thrombocyte Count

Blood Tests Blood
Patient Friendly Summary

Platelets are your body's puncture-repair kit. In dengue season doctors often repeat this test daily — a falling trend needs closer watching, while recovery shows counts rising again.

What this test means

Platelets plug small leaks in blood vessels and start clotting. Counts are watched closely in fevers like dengue and before procedures.

Why it is done

It is done for fevers (especially dengue), easy bruising or bleeding, before surgery, and as part of the routine CBC.

Understanding your value

If your value is high

High platelets can be seen after infections, with iron deficiency, or with inflammation; most causes are temporary.

If your value is low

Low platelets can be seen in dengue and other viral fevers, some medicines, and certain blood conditions. Very low counts can increase bleeding risk.

About the normal range

A common adult range is roughly 1.5–4.5 lakh/µL (150,000–450,000). Trends over days often matter more than a single value.

When to consult a doctor

Consult your doctor for any flagged value. Seek medical care promptly if you notice bleeding gums, blood in urine or stool, skin rashes with fever, or severe weakness.

Frequently Asked Questions

It is done for fevers (especially dengue), easy bruising or bleeding, before surgery, and as part of the routine CBC. Your doctor will decide if this test is right for your situation.

High platelets can be seen after infections, with iron deficiency, or with inflammation; most causes are temporary. This needs clinical correlation — always discuss your report with your doctor.

Low platelets can be seen in dengue and other viral fevers, some medicines, and certain blood conditions. Very low counts can increase bleeding risk. This needs clinical correlation — always discuss your report with your doctor.

A single value rarely tells the whole story. Results need to be read together with your symptoms, history, and other tests. Please consult your doctor for a proper interpretation.

Quick Facts

  • TestPlatelet Count
  • Short formsPLT, Thrombocyte Count
  • Sample typeBlood
  • CategoryBlood Tests

Related Terms

Low Infection Severe

Specialists

General Medicine Pediatrics

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Disclaimer: This information is for patient education only and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified doctor.