Platelet Antibody Test-Why am I having this test?

Platelets are specialized cells that help the blood clot. When you get a tissue injury like a cut, platelets gather at the site of the injury to stop the bleeding. You may have the platelet antibody test:

• To help determine the cause of a low platelet count.
• If you have symptoms of low platelet production, such as excessive bleeding from minor cuts and scrapes.

What is being tested?

This test checks for the presence of platelet antibodies in the blood. Antibodies are a type of cell that is part of the body’s disease-fighting (immune) system.

Normally, your body makes antibodies when you get an infection. The antibodies stay in your body after you recover and protect you from getting the same infection again. Platelet antibodies are a sign that your body’s immune system is attacking and destroying your platelets (immune destruction), which is not normal.

What kind of sample is taken?

A blood sample is required for this test. It is usually collected by inserting a needle into a blood vessel.

How do I prepare for this test?

Follow instructions from your health care provider about changing or stopping your regular medicines.

Tell a health care provider about:

• Any blood transfusions you have received.
• Any blood disorders you have.

How are the results reported?

Your test results will be reported as either positive or negative. Positive means that you have the antibody, and negative means that you do not have the antibody.

What do the results mean?

A negative result is considered normal. This means that you do not have the antibody and your immune system is not destroying your platelets.

A positive result means that you have the antibody and your immune system may be destroying your platelets. This may be caused by:

• Certain medicines.
• An unfavorable (adverse) reaction to a blood transfusion.

Talk with your health care provider about what your results mean.

Questions to ask your health care provider

Ask your health care provider, or the department that is doing the test:

• When will my results be ready?
• How will I get my results?
• What are my treatment options?
• What other tests do I need?
• What are my next steps?

Summary

• Platelets are specialized cells that help your blood clot.
• Platelet antibodies are a sign that your body’s immune system is attacking and destroying your platelets (immune destruction).
• A positive result means that your immune system may be destroying your platelets. Talk with your health care provider about what your results mean.