Platelets may be counted manually or by automated
means. However, automated methods allow for greater
control and accuracy and are therefore preferred.
Whether automated or manual methods are used, results
are sometimes correlated with the platelet concentration
on a peripheral blood smear. When this occurs, platelet
morphology should also be noted during inspection
of the blood smear.1
While platelet counts provide quantitative data
that may be important in certain disorders, it is
of limited use in evaluating disorders involving
defects in platelet function, such as vWD or drug-induced
dysfunction.1
For information on other tests for platelet dysfunction,
click on the following:
