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Plan

Blood Count

Platelets

Blood Count

Platelets

Platelets are small cell fragments in the blood that help form clots to stop bleeding. Their count reveals clotting ability and bleeding risk.

65 SEK

VAT-exempt medical service

  • Results in 5 working days
  • 116 sampling locations
  • No doctor's referral needed
  • Sample: Blood (venous)
Find a sampling location →

What does this test measure?

Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, are small cell fragments produced in the bone marrow. They circulate in the blood and aggregate at sites of blood vessel damage to form clots and stop bleeding. A platelet count is part of every complete blood count and is essential for evaluating clotting function, bleeding risk, and bone marrow health.

Platelet testing is recommended to check clotting ability if you bruise or bleed easily, investigate signs of blood clots, evaluate inflammation or bone marrow function, and monitor treatment with medications affecting the immune system or bone marrow.

What a high value can mean

Elevated platelets (thrombocytosis) may be caused by inflammation, infection, iron deficiency, or blood disorders such as essential thrombocythemia. A temporary increase can occur after surgery or blood loss. Persistently high levels may increase the risk of blood clots.

What a low value can mean

Low platelets (thrombocytopenia) are often seen with viral infections, autoimmune diseases (e.g., ITP), bone marrow disorders, or B12/folic acid deficiency. Low values can increase the risk of easy bruising, nosebleeds, and prolonged bleeding.

Read more about this marker →

Associated symptoms

  • Easy bruising
  • Frequent nosebleeds
  • Bleeding gums
  • Heavy menstrual periods
  • Prolonged bleeding from cuts
  • Small red or purple spots on the skin (petechiae)

Who should consider this test

  • People who bruise or bleed easily
  • Those with frequent nosebleeds or bleeding gums
  • Women with unusually heavy periods
  • Patients with symptoms of blood clots
  • Anyone on medications that affect blood or immune function

Before your appointment

No special preparation is needed. Bring valid ID to your appointment.

  • Bring photo ID to the sampling location.
  • You do not need a doctor's referral — your referral is issued when you order.
  • Tell the staff which test you have ordered if they ask.

How it works

  1. 1

    Order your test

    Choose your test and pay online. Your lab referral is created straight away.

  2. 2

    Give your sample

    Visit any of our partner sampling locations. No appointment needed at most of them.

  3. 3

    The lab analyses it

    Your sample is analysed at an accredited Swedish laboratory.

  4. 4

    Get your results

    Your values appear in your account with reference ranges and an explanation of each marker.

Good to know

What is a normal platelet count?

The normal range is typically 150–400 × 10⁹/L. Values below 150 indicate thrombocytopenia; values above 400 indicate thrombocytosis.

Can platelets be too high?

Yes. Very high platelet counts (above 1000 × 10⁹/L) can paradoxically increase the risk of both bleeding and clotting. This requires medical evaluation.

What causes sudden drops in platelets?

Viral infections, autoimmune conditions (like ITP), certain medications, and bone marrow disorders can cause rapid drops. Severe cases may require urgent treatment.