Platelet Count Fluorescent (PLT-F) Test Cost & Procedure

This test estimates platelets in patients who usually exhibit low platelet count. It is used frequently as it is more precise than the other techniques.

Why is this test done?

This technique is more accurate in checking the platelet levels in patients with low platelet counts. It reduces the disturbances of  fragments of red and white blood cells.

The fluorescent dye is very selective for platelets.

Platelets:

They are commonly known as thrombocytes.

They are the tiny part of your blood that helps in the hemostasis. They make a group and form a clot to prevent further bleeding at the site where the tissue is injured. They are the lightest component of the blood.

Function:

• Prevents bleeding
• Forms a clot
• Prevent excessive leakage of blood

Location of Platelets:

They are present at two locations in the body:

• Blood
• Spleen

Blood contains plasma, white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets. The reason that they reach the injury site is their light weight. They are lightweight, so they are the fastest to reach the injury.

Structure of Platelets:

They are tiny, pale parts of cells. As the name suggests, they're plate-shaped.

Common symptoms are seen in any disorder of platelet:

• Heavy periods
• Internal bleeding
• Bruising
• Bleeding gums
• Blood in urine
• Muscle pain
• Headache
• Weakness
• Dizziness:

Causes of low platelet count:

• Autoimmune diseases
• Alcoholic patients
• Kidney infection
• Chemicals
• Bone marrow diseases
• Cancer
• Viral Infections
• Enlarged spleen
• Bacterial infections

What happens if they decrease in number?

• Internal bleeding
• Hemorrhaging
• Excessive blood loss

What happens if they increase in number?

• Heart attack
• Stroke
• High blood pressure

Fluorescent Method:

A dye named Oxazine is used. It differentiates the platelets as compared to the other cells of the blood. The fluorescence intensity achieved this.

Procedure:

• A blood sample is needed.
• The needle is pricked into the arm.
• Blood is withdrawn.
• Thmodelle is sent for examination.