Platelet count

Aliases: PLT, thrombocyte, thrombocyte count, platelet function tests, platelet function assay, platelet aggregation studies

Group: Complete blood count

Description:

Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, are small blood cells essential for blood clotting. Clotting is the process that helps stop bleeding after an injury. The platelet count test measures the number of platelets in the blood. A lower-than-normal platelet count is called thrombocytopenia. This condition can cause excessive bleeding after a cut or wound. A higher than normal platelet count is called thrombocytosis. This condition can cause blood to clot more than normal. Blood clots can be dangerous because they can block blood flow.