Platelet Count · low result
What does a low Platelet Count mean?
Short answer
A low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) has many causes: a clumping artifact in the tube (pseudothrombocytopenia), viral infections, alcohol, medications (heparin, some antibiotics and anticonvulsants), liver disease with an enlarged spleen, immune thrombocytopenia, B12 or folate deficiency, and pregnancy. Bleeding risk rises meaningfully below about 50 × 10³/µL; spontaneous bleeding below about 20.
Medically reviewed by Youmna DiStefano, MD · Last reviewed September 2026
When does this result need same-day care?
- Platelets below 50 × 10³/µL, or any low count with active bleeding, black stools or a severe headache — same-day care
What is the normal range for Platelet Count?
- age 18+: 150 – 450 10^3/uL
May reflect viral infection, certain medications, autoimmune conditions, or alcohol use.
Full reference table, citations and testing options: Platelet Count biomarker page.
What are the common causes of low Platelet Count?
- Platelet clumping in the sample (repeat in a citrate tube)
- Viral infections, including hepatitis C and HIV
- Alcohol, liver disease, enlarged spleen
- Medications: heparin, valproate, some antibiotics, chemotherapy
- Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), lupus
- B12 or folate deficiency
- Pregnancy (mild, gestational)
What symptoms go with low Platelet Count?
- Usually none when mild
- Easy bruising, petechiae (pinpoint red spots), nosebleeds, gum bleeding, heavy periods
What do clinicians usually check next?
- Repeat with a peripheral smear (rules out clumping)
- Liver panel, B12, folate, hepatitis C and HIV tests
- Medication and alcohol review
- Hematology referral below about 100 × 10³/µL or with bleeding
Follow-up tests available at TestWell: HIV 1/2 Antigen & Antibodies (4th Gen) ($39.99), Folate (Vitamin B9) ($32.99).
How do you recheck Platelet Count?
Prices are cash-pay; every order adds one $6 lab processing fee. Physician authorization is included; no insurance or referral needed.
| Test or panel | Type | Price | Fasting | Results |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Wellness Panel | Panel · 4 tests | $89.99 | Yes | 1–3 business days |
| Blood Clotting Panel | Panel · 4 tests | $149.99 | No | 3–7 business days |
| Baseline Anemia Panel | Panel · 5 tests | $74.99 | Yes | 2–4 business days |
| CBC with Differential | Test · 14 biomarkers | $21.99 | No | 1–3 business days |
Common questions
What platelet count is dangerous?
Bleeding risk increases below 50 × 10³/µL and spontaneous bleeding becomes a concern below 20. Mildly low counts (100–150) are usually watched and explained rather than treated.
Sources
Educational content, not a diagnosis. Lab results are one input; a clinician interprets them with your history and exam.