Measurement of mean platelets volume is used in the diagnosis of thrombocytopenia, conditions in which there is a decrease in platelet count.
Platelets or thrombocytes are fragments of megakaryocytes that form in the bone marrow. They are necessary for hemostasis and blood coagulation. When the blood vessel wall is injured, the platelets attach to the wall and accumulate, forming a platelet clot. It is advantageous in this process for platelets to be large. When bone marrow function is reduced, the megakaryocytes are small, resulting in the formation of small platelets. When any pathological condition other than bone marrow dysfunction is the cause of the decreased platelet count, then the bone marrow tries to compensate for it by releasing larger platelets.
Mean Platelet Volume measurement is part of the Complete Blood Count
What Do Pathological Values Mean?
- Increase: Bernard-Soulier syndrome, diabetes mellitus, disseminated intravascular coagulation, hyperthyroidism, leukemia, May-Hegglin anomaly, myeloproliferative disorders, systemic lupus erythematosus, heart valve diseases.
- Decrease: Aplastic anemia, hypersplenism, inflammatory bowel disease (active), megaloblastic anemia, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome.
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. The correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
