Plaquettes: how to interpret a rate too high or too low?

Blood platelet count: what is it?

A plate, kezako? " Platelets are small blood cells (which are 3 micrometers in diameter) that are continuously produced by the bone marrow and have a lifespan of about 10 to 12 days, explains Dr. François Blanchecotte, Doctor of Pharmacy and President of the Union of Biologists (SDB). It should be known that two-thirds of the platelets produced are released into the bloodstream, while the remaining third is stored at the level of the spleen. "

What are they for ? Platelets fulfill an essential function in the body because, without them, healing is impossible. " When platelets arrive at the site of a vascular breach (when cutting by cooking, for example), they form a "net" that will stop the bleeding - it is hemostasis, develops the specialist. Clearly, they allow the formation of the clot that will prevent the blood from flowing. "

In addition, platelets can also defend the body in case of viral or bacterial aggression. Indispensable !

To know : a normal platelet count is between 150 and 400 gigas per liter of blood, is 150,000 to 400,000 platelets per milliliter of blood.

Number of platelets too low (thrombocytopenia): what can be the causes?

To know : Platelet examination is most often performed as part of a total blood count. " This is the "basic" blood test that is systematically performed at each blood test and that assesses the patient's state of health. explains Dr. Blanchecotte.

However, a doctor may also prescribe a platelet examination ("thrombocyte" in medical language) in isolation: " this examination is especially indicated in people who show signs of bleeding: hematomas spontaneous, small red dots in the baby (petechia) ... "Are also concerned: patients on anticoagulant therapy, for example after phlebitis.

When the platelet count in the blood is abnormally low, we talk about thrombocytopenia. " All pathologies and situations that lead to significant bleeding can lead to low platelet count "In addition, thrombocytopenia can also be linked to bone marrow involvement (for example, leukemia).

" In case of thrombocytopenia, the doctor may perform a blood transfusion platelets. It should be noted that it is possible to give his chips, as one gives one's blood "adds Dr. Blanchecotte.

Platelet levels too high (thrombocytosis): what can be the causes?

A thrombocytosis (ie: an abnormally high blood platelet count) is not necessarily a cause for concern: " post-operative, it is not uncommon to observe an excess of platelets in the blood, it means that the body reactsexplains Dr. Blanchecotte. Moreover, during the third trimester of pregnancy, bone marrow will produce more platelets in anticipation ofdelivery. It is about preparing the body for a future need. "

But thrombocytopenia can also mean leukemia, that is to say, a blood cancer that specifically affects platelets: it is called essential thrombocythemia. " In case of essential thrombocythaemia, up to 1 million platelets per ml of blood can be counted "says the specialist.

To know : "People with thrombocytosis or thrombocytopenia have a higher than average risk of bleeding." Caution!

Thanks to Dr. François Blanchecotte, Doctor of Pharmacy and President of Union of Biologists (SDB).

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