Normal platelet count

Thrombocytopenia is a platelet count of less than 150 × 10 3 per μL and can occur from decreased platelet production, increased destruction, splenic sequestration, or dilution or clumping. Patients with a platelet count greater than 50 × 10 3 per μL are generally asymptomatic. Patients with platelet counts between 20 and 50 × 10 3 per μL may have mild skin manifestations such as petechiae, purpura, or ecchymosis. Patients with platelet counts of less than 10 × 10 3 per μL have a high risk of serious bleeding. Although thrombocytopenia is classically associated with bleeding, there are conditions in which bleeding and thrombosis can occur, such as antiphospholipid syndrome, heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, and thrombotic microangiopathies. Patients with isolated thrombocytopenia in the absence of systemic illness most likely have immune thrombocytopenia or drug-induced thrombocytopenia. In stable patients being evaluated as outpatients, the first step is to exclude pseudothrombocytopenia by collecting blood in a tube containing heparin or sodium citrate and repeating the platelet count. If thrombocytopenia is confirmed, the next step is to distinguish acute from chronic thrombocytopenia by obtaining or reviewing previous platelet counts. Patients with acute thrombocytopenia may require hospitalization. Common causes that require emergency hospitalization are heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, thrombotic microangiopathies, and the hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low p...

As someone ages, platelet counts may fluctuate. Possible reasons include natural vascular aging, changes in bone marrow tissue, and altered blood plasma makeup. Platelets — also known as thrombocytes — are colorless fragments of larger cells called megakaryocytes, The purpose of platelets is to create hemostasis, which is the prevention of hemorrhaging and the process of keeping blood inside the vessel walls. Platelet count is an important diagnostic tool, measuring the number of platelets per microliter (mcL) of blood. It can help doctors identify potential health complications related to wound healing, bleeding disorders, and blood clotting. This article discusses platelets in more detail and the expected platelet count based on a person’s age. Share on Pinterest Mohammed Hamoud/Getty Images For years, the general range for adult platelets has been However, a The values took data from more than 40,000 inhabitants across seven Italian regions. While it is unknown if these numbers are representative of all populations, the review authors indicate there have been similar platelet observations in the United States and different African populations: Age (years) Approximate platelet count (male) Approximate platelet count (female) under 5 340,000 330,000 5–9 310,000 slightly less than 310,000 10–14 280,000 slightly more than 280,000 15–17 250,000 270,000 18–34 240,000 265,000 35–49 245,000 270,000 50–64 230,000 260,000 65–74 220,000 250,000 75 and over 215,000 240,000 More rec...