Reference ranges
| Normal | 150 – 400 x10⁹/L |
| Mild reduction | 100 – 149 x10⁹/L |
| Significant reduction | Below 50 x10⁹/L |
| Bleeding risk high | Below 20 x10⁹/L |
Reference ranges vary between laboratories and methods. Always read your result against the range printed on your own report.
Seek care urgently if
- Platelets below 20 x10⁹/L
- Bleeding gums or nosebleeds that will not stop
- Blood in urine or stool
- Widespread bruising or a pinpoint red rash
- Heavy menstrual bleeding with a low count
- Any head injury with a low count
What a high result can mean
Reactive rise
After infection, inflammation, bleeding or surgery — the commonest reason.
Iron deficiency
Frequently raises platelets.
Removal of the spleen
Marrow disorders
Where the rise is sustained and unexplained.
What a low result can mean
Malaria
One of the most common causes seen in Nigeria.
Viral infection
Including dengue and HIV.
Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP)
The immune system destroying platelets.
Medication
Several drugs, including some antibiotics.
Liver disease and spleen enlargement
Have your result in front of you?
Send us the value and we will tell you whether it needs an appointment or not. No account, no form.
Ask about my Platelets resultNothing is stored on this website.
What happens next
A low platelet count with fever should prompt a malaria test first in Nigeria. A repeat count confirms whether it is falling, stable or recovering, which matters more than a single value.
Full Blood Count Malaria & Typhoid Test Doctor's AssessmentOther results people look up
This page explains what a result can mean in general terms. It is not a diagnosis and cannot account for your history, medication or examination. All visits to Mascot Healthcare are by appointment — Mon–Sat, 9AM–5PM, 52 Sholanke Street, Akoka, Yaba, Lagos.