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Platelet Count
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Approval req'd? | No |
| Available Stat? | Yes |
| Test code | PLT, CBC , CBCD, PLTM |
| Performed by | Parnassus & Mt. Zion Hematology |
| In House Availability | Test available 24 hours per day 7 days per week |
| Method | Flow cytometry and/or Phase microscopy |
| Collection Instructions | Collect the specimen in a blue top (citrate) tube if platelets are repeatedly found to clump in samples collected in a lavender top (EDTA). When platelets clump in both EDTA and citrate tubes, and the count is < 100 and a physician specifically orders the procedure, a count will be run on a fingerstick sample collected directly into a Unopette¨. |
| Container type | Lavender top |
| Amount to Collect | 1 mL blood |
| Sample type | EDTA whole blood |
| Preferred volume | 1 mL blood |
| Min. Volume | 250 µl in pedi-bullet |
| Units | x109/L |
| Normal range | 140-450 x109/L |
| Panic value | ≤ 10 x109/L (always called) ≤ 25 x109/L Called if new finding within previous 24 hours. |
| Turn around times | STAT 1 hour, Routine 4 hours |
| Additional information | The less precise manual method is usually performed and billed (PLTM) when required by an intrinsic abnormality of the specimen. In the presence of clumping, only platelet counts > 100 x109/L are reported. |
| Medical Necessity? | Yes. Click here for more information |
| Last Updated | 11/13/2009 9:26:55 AM |
| Entry Number | 750 |