Thrombocytes, or platelets, are one of the fundamental parameters measured during morphology. They are denoted in the study by the abbreviation PLT. Thrombocytes are blood-forming elements. Their function in the body is critical; they participate in blood coagulation processes.
The bone marrow is where thrombocytes are made. Once a year, it is important to assess their level as part of their fundamental morphology. Any deviation from the norm, no matter how slight, requires medical attention.
PLT examination: warning signs
Along with other blood markers like white blood cells and red blood cells, thrombocyte counts are calculated. However, if a patient complains of any of the following, the doctor may order a platelet test:
- frequent bleeding from the nose and gums,
- extensive bruises arising for no reason,
- hematuria ,
- blood in the stool
- red spots on the skin,
- blue spots on the skin,
- very heavy menstruation,
- difficulty closing the wound.
What kind of test is the PLT?
You should not eat for at least 8 hours on an empty stomach. Avoid strenuous physical activity the day before and consume lots of water. Venous blood is taken in order to perform the test. The thrombocyte test result is typically available in less than 24 hours.
The Normal thrombocyte
All adults, regardless of gender, have the same normal level of thrombocytes. 150-400 thousand thrombocytes per milliliter of blood is considered normal. These numbers could differ slightly between laboratories. You should inform your doctor of the test results so that they can interpret them and, if necessary, order additional diagnostics.
Elevated thrombocytes
Thrombocytosis, also known as thrombocythemia, is a condition where there are more thrombocytes than usual. It’s not a guarantee that you’re ill. Occasionally, excessive exertion results in high platelet counts. PLT values in postpartum women may also be higher. An increased thrombocyte count may be a sign of the following conditions:
- bone marrow cancers,
- infections,
- inflammations,
- leukemia
- polycythemia vera,
- anemia
Untreated thrombocytosis can lead to blood clots , especially after surgery.
Decreased thrombocytes
A condition where the platelet count is below normal is thrombocytopenia, or thrombocytopenia . It may be the result of:
- acute leukemia,
- chemotherapy,
- impaired bone marrow production,
- infectious diseases such as mononucleosis or measles ,
- spleen diseases,
- liver cirrhosis ,
- anemia ( anemia and morphology results ),
- autoimmune diseases,
- deficiency of folic acid and vitamin B12 .
It is worth knowing that the number of thrombocytes may be below normal in women during menstruation, so you should not do a complete blood count then.
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