Lab test · Hematology
Platelet Count
Platelet count, bleeding & dengue
- Blood sample
- No fasting
- Report within 24 hours
- Home collection
What this test is for
Platelet count, bleeding & dengue
Platelets are tiny cell fragments in the blood that help it clot and stop bleeding. This test counts how many platelets are in a sample of your blood. It is often repeated during dengue fever, when the count can fall, and it is also used to investigate unexplained bruising or bleeding and to check the effect of some medicines and illnesses.
Why a doctor may order it
- To follow the platelet count during dengue fever
- If you bruise easily, or have nosebleeds, bleeding gums or tiny red spots on the skin
- Before an operation or procedure
- To monitor blood disorders or the effect of treatments such as chemotherapy
How to prepare
Fasting: Not needed.
Eat and drink normally; fasting is not part of this test. Keep taking your regular medicines unless your doctor advises otherwise, and tell the collector if you take a blood thinner or have a bleeding problem, so extra pressure can be applied after the draw.
At home
- Sample
- Blood sample
- How it works
- A small blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm at home. When the count needs checking every day or two, as in dengue, home collection avoids repeated trips while you are unwell.
- Report
- Within 24 hours of collection.
What the results can mean
The report shows your platelet count next to the laboratory's reference range. A low count can be caused by dengue and other infections, some medicines, bone marrow problems or an enlarged spleen, and very low counts increase the risk of bleeding. A high count can follow infection, inflammation or iron deficiency, or less often a bone marrow condition. Your doctor will look at the trend over time, not just one result.
What's included
One test: Platelet Count, from one blood sample.
Related tests
- Complete Blood Count (CBC)A complete blood count looks at the three main types of cells in your blood: red blood cells, which carry oxygen; white blood cells, which fight infection; and platelets, which help blood to clot.
- Dengue NS1 AntigenThe dengue NS1 test looks for NS1, a protein made by the dengue virus, in the blood.
- Dengue IgM and IgG AntibodiesThis test looks for two types of antibodies that the body makes against the dengue virus.
- Dengue Fever Test PackageThis package combines three blood tests used when dengue is suspected.
- Peripheral Blood Film (PBF)In a peripheral blood film, a drop of your blood is spread thinly on a glass slide, stained and examined under a microscope.
- Prothrombin Time with INR (PT/INR)The prothrombin time (PT) measures how long it takes your blood to clot.
Questions people ask
Why does the platelet count fall in dengue?
Dengue can reduce platelet production and increase platelet destruction. The count often falls around the time the fever settles, which is why doctors check it frequently at that stage.
Is a platelet count the same as a CBC?
A CBC includes the platelet count along with red cells, white cells and haemoglobin. Some doctors order a platelet count alone when only platelets need to be followed.
What are the signs of a low platelet count?
Signs can include easy bruising, tiny red or purple spots on the skin, bleeding gums, nosebleeds or unusually heavy periods. Seek urgent medical care for any heavy bleeding.
How much does a Platelet count test cost in Dhaka?
With Mukti Health the price is ৳150, and the sample is collected at your home in Dhaka. You see the price again before you confirm the booking in the Mukti Health app.
Can I do the Platelet count test at home in Dhaka?
Yes. Book it in the Mukti Health app and a trained sample collector comes to your home in Dhaka to take the blood sample. You do not need to go to a laboratory.
How long does the Platelet count report take?
The report is usually ready within 24 hours of the sample being collected.