To check your platelet count in a Complete Blood Count (CBC) report, locate the section labeled "Platelets" or "PLT." This value represents the number of platelets in your blood.
Here's a breakdown of how platelet counts are often assessed and estimated, alongside information on what to look for in a CBC report:
Understanding Platelet Counts
- CBC Report: The CBC report will list your actual platelet count, typically expressed as platelets per microliter (μL) of blood.
- Normal Range: Your lab report will also provide the normal reference range for platelet counts. Usually, this range falls between 150,000 and 450,000 platelets/μL. Results that fall within the reference range is a normal platelet count.
- Low Platelet Count (Thrombocytopenia): A platelet count below the normal range.
- High Platelet Count (Thrombocytosis): A platelet count above the normal range.
Estimating Platelet Count (Simplified)
In some situations, a quick estimate can be useful. The reference provides the following method:
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Microscopic Estimation: If a blood smear is examined under a microscope, a rough estimate of the platelet count can be made.
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If you can see a normal proportion of platelets to red blood cells (approximately 1 platelet for every 20 RBCs). To calculate an estimated platelet count if looking at a blood smear.
- Count the average number of platelets per high-power field (100x).
- Multiply that average by 20,000/μL (20 x 10/μL).
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Example
Let's say under the microscope, you count an average of 10 platelets per 100x field.
- Estimated Platelet Count = 10 (average) * 20,000/μL = 200,000/μL
Important Note
The estimation method is not as accurate as the platelet count reported directly on a CBC. It serves as a quick check, especially in resource-limited settings. Rely on the CBC's listed platelet count for clinical decisions.
