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Platelet associated antibodies - Overview

Definition of Platelet associated antibodies:

A test for platelet-associated antibodies shows whether you have antibodies that are directed against platelets in your blood.

How the test is performed:

A blood sample is needed. For information on how this is done, see: Venipuncture

How to prepare for the test:

No special preparation is necessary for adults.

How the test will feel:

When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.

Why the test is performed:

This test may be ordered when you have a low platelet count (thrombocytopenia). It is used to detect antibodies against platelets.

Blood test

Reviewed last on: 2/28/2011
David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Yi-Bin Chen, MD, Leukemia/Bone Marrow Transplant Program, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Schmaier AH. Thrombocytopenia due to platelet destruction and hypersplenism. In: Hoffman R, Benz EJ Jr., Shattil SJ, et al, eds. Hoffman Hematology: Basic Principles and Practice. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Churchill Livingstone Elsevier;2008:chap 140.

McMillan R. Hemorrhagic disorders: Abnormalities of platelet and vascular function. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier;2007:chap 179.

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