US Medical Term · anatomy
Platelets
Plaquetas
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Platelets |
| Spanish (Español) | Plaquetas |
| Chinese (中文) | 血小板 |
| Korean (한국어) | 혈소판 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Tiểu cầu |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Platelet |
| Portuguese (Português) | Plaquetas |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | เกล็ดเลือด |
| Japanese (日本語) | 血小板 |
What it means
Platelets are tiny, disc-shaped cell fragments in the blood that play a critical role in clotting. When you have a cut or injury, platelets rush to the damaged area, clump together, and form a plug to stop bleeding. They also release chemicals that attract more platelets and activate clotting proteins. Platelets are produced in the bone marrow and live for about seven to ten days. A low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) can cause easy bruising, prolonged bleeding, or tiny red spots on the skin called petechiae. A high count (thrombocytosis) can increase the risk of blood clots. Platelet counts are measured with a standard complete blood count (CBC) test.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
My platelet count is low and my doctor is worried about my risk of bleeding.
El conteo de plaquetas está bajo y el médico está preocupado por el riesgo de sangrado.
I bruise very easily — could it be because of low platelets?
Me salen moretones con mucha facilidad — ¿podría ser por las plaquetas bajas?
Will I need a platelet transfusion before my surgery?
¿Necesitaré una transfusión de plaquetas antes de la cirugía?
Where you'll see it
Related terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026