Platelets

DESCRIPTION:
A platelet is a formed element normally found in circulating blood. In blood smear preparations, they are stained using the Pappenheim method, and smears should be made from blood collected in tubes with an anticoagulant (EDTA). If platelet aggregates are present, there is a risk of issuing an incorrect result with low platelet values. Large platelet aggregates and large platelets (>20 fl) are not registered by automated counters. This phenomenon is called pseudothrombocytopenia.

DETERMINATION:
The numerical concentration of platelets is determined using a hematology analyzer. The sample for analysis is whole blood (EDTA).

RESULT:
The reference interval depends on sex, age, and the determination method. The reference interval is displayed on every validated report.