A novel technique to test platelet function within a person’s blood sample is faster, easier and more precise than methods currently in use, an experimental study shows. Nature Biomedical Engineering ...

DEAR DR. ROACH: I am a 58-year-old female in reasonably good health. When I was young, I donated blood several times and would have continued to do so, had I not become ineligible due to living in ...

When donated blood is in low supply, platelets are even scarcer. These cell fragments, which are essential for blood clotting, have a short shelf life. Whereas whole blood can be refrigerated for up ...

Severe thrombocytopenia can be very dangerous, even fatal, without treatment. Treatment depends on the underlying cause but can include medications, transfusions, and surgery. Severe thrombocytopenia ...

DEAR DR. ROACH: My husband was diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) in 2010 and remained in stage 2 with no effects until 2022. In the interim, he was also diagnosed with atrial ...

Eating fruits high in vitamin C, folate, and iron may help support your platelet count. A low platelet count increases your risk of excessive bleeding. Platelets are the smallest of your blood cells.