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Tests and diagnosis
By Mayo Clinic staff
Tests to diagnose thrombocytopenia
Tests and procedures used to diagnose thrombocytopenia include:
- Blood test. A complete blood count determines the number of blood cells, including platelets, in a sample of your blood. Normal blood contains 150,000 to 450,000 platelets per microliter. If the complete blood count finds you have fewer than 150,000 platelets, you have thrombocytopenia.
- Physical exam. Your doctor may do a physical exam to look for signs of bleeding, such as excessive bruising or petechiae. Your doctor may also feel your abdomen to see if your spleen is enlarged.
Other tests to determine the cause of thrombocytopenia
Once your doctor diagnoses your thrombocytopenia, you may undergo other tests and procedures to determine the cause. The tests and procedures you undergo depend on your other signs and symptoms.
References
- Landaw SA, et al. Approach to the adult patient with thrombocytopenia. http://www.uptodate.com/index. Accessed Jan. 18, 2012.
- George JN. Evaluation and management of thrombocytopenia by primary care physicians. http://www.uptodate.com/index. Accessed Jan. 18, 2012.
- Thrombocytopenia. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/thcp/thcp_all.html. Accessed Jan. 18, 2012.
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