Platelets, also known as Thrombocytes, are derived from fragmentation of Megakaryocytes. Platelets have no nucleus which is different from most other blood cells.
Platelets react to injury and when "activated" they become more adherent (sticky) and form a mesh-like web to stop blood loss through the injury site. Platelets are an important cell in assembly, recruitment and production of additional factors that make up the blood clot, stimulate
Immune Responses and induce healing at the injury site.
Normal Platelet counts in
Blood Tests ranges between 150,000 to 450,000 cells per microliter (150 x 10
3 cells/µL to 450 x 10
3 cells/µL). Fewer numbers of Platelets is called
Thrombocytopenia and can increase bleeding risk and Greater numbers of platelets is called
Thrombocythemia and increases risk of blood clots.
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