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Platelet Count
Also known as: Thrombocyte count, PLT Formal name: Platelet Count Related tests: CBC, Platelet aggregation
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Common Questions
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1. What do I need to be aware of concerning my platelets if I am having surgery?
2. Are there signs or symptoms of high or low platelet levels that I should pay attention to?
3. How stable are platelet counts?
1. What do I need to be aware of concerning my platelets if I am having surgery?
Platelets survive about 8-10 days. If you ingest any aspirin products within this period before surgery, platelet function may be diminished, resulting in excessive bleeding. Consequently, surgery may be canceled.
2. Are there signs or symptoms of high or low platelet levels that I should pay attention to?
Bruising for no apparent reason, bleeding from the nose, mouth, or rectum also without obvious injury, excessive or prolonged menstrual periods, or the inability to stop a small wound from bleeding within a reasonable period of time may indicate a platelet deficiency.
3. How stable are platelet counts?
Platelet counts can vary throughout the course of the day; however, counts are highest at midday. Under certain conditions, platelets may clump and falsely appear to be low in number.
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This article was last reviewed on
March 19, 2008.
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