What is PLT in a Blood Test?
A PLT in a blood test refers to a platelet count. This test measures the number of platelets in your blood. Platelets are tiny blood cells crucial for blood clotting. Having too few or too many platelets can indicate various health problems.
- What they are: Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, are essential for blood clotting. They help stop bleeding by forming clots at the site of an injury.
- The PLT test: This simple blood test quantifies the number of platelets present in a microliter of blood. A normal range typically falls between 150,000 and 450,000 platelets per microliter.
- Low Platelet Count (Thrombocytopenia): A low platelet count can signify various conditions, including:
- Cancer
- Infections
- Other health problems (as noted in Cleveland Clinic's information)
- High Platelet Count (Thrombocytosis): Conversely, an elevated platelet count increases the risk of:
- Blood clots
- Stroke (as noted in Cleveland Clinic's information and NHLBI's information)
The platelet count is often included as part of a complete blood count (CBC), a routine blood test that assesses overall blood health. As noted by Testing.com, the purpose of a platelet count test is to assess the blood's ability to clot.
A change in platelet levels can be influenced by various factors, such as age, acute injury, medication changes, and deficiencies, as highlighted by Medical News Today. Both high and low platelet counts can be detected during routine blood tests, as mentioned in information from Mayo Clinic and NHLBI. Platelet tests, including platelet count tests, are used to identify conditions affecting bleeding or blood clotting, as stated by MedlinePlus.
