Platelets (TPK)

Understanding the marker

Platelets help stop bleeding by forming part of a blood clot. The platelet count measures how many are present in the blood.

Platelets are reported as part of the blood count. Results are interpreted with symptoms, medicines and other blood values. Unexpected or markedly abnormal counts need clinical assessment and may need repeat sampling.

What does high Platelets (TPK) mean?

A high platelet count can be a response to another process in the body. Iron status, inflammation markers, symptoms and previous counts help assess it. A marked or persistent elevation needs investigation.

What does low Platelets (TPK) mean?

A low platelet count needs assessment with symptoms, medicines and the other blood-count results. Laboratory checks may be needed to confirm an unexpected value. Very low counts can increase bleeding risk and require prompt medical assessment.