Platelet Count: normal range & what your result means

Platelets are the tiny cells that help blood clot. Too few raises bleeding risk; too many can raise clotting risk.

Typical adult reference range

Measure	Range
Normal	150,000–450,000 /µL
Low (thrombocytopenia)	< 150,000 /µL
High (thrombocytosis)	> 450,000 /µL

What a HIGH result can mean

High platelets can follow infection, inflammation or iron deficiency; rarely a bone-marrow condition

What a LOW result can mean

Low platelets (e.g. in dengue, some infections, or immune conditions) increase bleeding/bruising risk

Ranges vary by lab. Reference ranges are TYPICAL ADULT values and vary by laboratory, age, sex, pregnancy and the method used. Always read your result against the range printed on YOUR report, and let your doctor interpret it alongside your history.

Frequently asked questions

Why do platelets drop in dengue?

Dengue can suppress platelet production and increase their breakdown, so counts fall — sometimes sharply. They are monitored closely, as very low counts raise bleeding risk.

What platelet level is dangerous?

Bleeding risk rises as platelets fall, particularly below about 20,000–50,000 /µL. Any significantly low count needs medical assessment and monitoring.

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MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.