How is a platelet function test performed?
Most platelet tests are done on a blood sample. During the test, a health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial.
When should platelet function test be done?
Why the Test is Performed Your provider may order this test if you have signs of a bleeding disorder or a low platelet count. It may also be ordered if a member of your family is known to have a bleeding disorder due to platelet dysfunction. The test can help diagnose problems with platelet function.
What is the best test for platelet function?
2. Platelet Function Testing
| Name of test | Principle |
|---|---|
| Platelet aggregometry | Platelet aggregation to a panel of agonists |
| PFA-100/200 | High shear platelet adhesion and aggregation |
| Flow cytometry | Measurement of platelet GP, secretion, MP, and activation markers by fluorescence |
Can I get a blood test for platelets?
Share on Pinterest Blood tests can help identify a low platelet count. A doctor will ask some questions and perform a physical examination. The questions might cover symptoms, family history, and medications. The examination will assess for skin rashes and bruising.
Which disorder involves low levels of platelets in blood?
Thrombocytopenia is a condition in which you have a low blood platelet count. Platelets (thrombocytes) are colorless blood cells that help blood clot. Platelets stop bleeding by clumping and forming plugs in blood vessel injuries.
What blood test shows low platelets?
A complete blood count (CBC) measures the levels of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in your blood. For this test, a small amount of blood is drawn from a blood vessel, usually in your arm. If you have thrombocytopenia, the results of this test will show that your platelet count is low.
What test measures platelet function?
A platelet aggregation test requires a blood sample. The sample is initially examined to see how the platelets are distributed through the plasma, the liquid part of the blood. A chemical is then added to your blood sample to test how quickly your platelets clot.
What does platelet function test mean?
Platelet function tests are a group of assays that use specialized equipment to measure the ability of platelets to aggregate and promote clotting in a sample of blood. There are a variety of tests available but no one test that identifies all problems with platelet function.
What is a platelet function analysis?
Platelet function tests indirectly evaluate how well a person’s platelets work in helping to stop bleeding within the body. Platelets are produced in the bone marrow and circulate in the blood. When there is an injury to a blood vessel and bleeding begins, platelets are the first elements to help to stop bleeding.
What is a platelet count test used for?
A platelet count is used to determine the number of platelets in your blood. The test is included in a complete blood count (CBC), a panel of tests often performed as part of a general health exam. To screen for or diagnose various diseases and conditions that can cause problems with blood clot formation.