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A platelet test measures platelet function and can include multiple tests. It requires a blood sample and can determine platelet count, clotting time, aggregation function, adherence, clotting factors, and aspirin tolerance. Results are printed with normal ranges and values, and can help diagnose conditions and monitor ongoing ones. Rush orders are available at an additional cost.
A platelet test is a test designed to measure one aspect of platelet function. Also known as a platelet function test, a platelet test can include a single function test or multiple tests. The goal of such a test is to learn more about a condition that may be causing platelets to malfunction. Turnaround times for a platelet test vary by laboratory, and rush orders can be placed if results are needed immediately, although this will add to the cost of the test. Some facilities have their own laboratories and are able to conduct a platelet test very quickly.
To perform a platelet test, a blood sample must be taken. This procedure can be done in a clinic or doctor’s office and is uncomfortable, but rarely painful. Several vials of blood can be collected so that different blood tests can be performed and to avoid recalling the patient for another blood draw by drawing more blood for the laboratory.
One aspect of a platelet test may be a platelet count, in which the laboratory determines how many platelets are present and at what stage of their life cycle they are. Abnormally high or low counts can explain clotting problems. If platelets are low, the blood has difficulty clotting, and if they are high, the blood may be prone to clotting too much. An analysis may also include a test to see how long it takes for a patient’s blood to clot.
A platelet test may include tests such as an aggregation function test, in which the laboratory determines whether or not the platelets are sticking together as they should. Tests can also explore adherence, the expression of various clotting factors, and aspirin tolerance. In this case, blood may be drawn from a patient before and after aspirin administration to see how platelets are responding, with the goal being to see if the aspirin is helping with a clotting problem.
The results of a platelet test are usually printed with normal ranges and values so that a doctor can determine at a glance if anything is abnormal. A lab technician can also make notes on the test results if anything unusual is observed while dosing the platelets. Using this information, a doctor can piece together the pieces of a diagnostic puzzle to find out why someone is sick, monitor an ongoing condition, or determine if a patient is a suitable candidate for surgery.
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