Thrombocyte

Thrombocytes, also known as platelets, are a component of blood that have a key role in hemostasis, leading to the formation of blood clots.

Structure

Thrombocytes are small, irregularly shaped clear cell fragments, 2–3 µm in diameter, which derive from fragmentation of precursor megakaryocytes. The average lifespan of a thrombocyte is normally just 5 to 9 days.

Function

Thrombocytes are a natural source of growth factors. They circulate in the blood of mammals and are involved in hemostasis, leading to the formation of blood clots. If the number of thrombocytes is too low, excessive bleeding can occur. However, if the number of thrombocytes is too high, blood clots can form (thrombosis), which may obstruct blood vessels and result in events such as a stroke, myocardial infarction, pulmonary embolism or the blockage of blood vessels to other parts of the body, such as the extremities of the arms or legs.

Clinical significance

Thrombocyte levels in the blood can be measured by a complete blood count (CBC). Normal values range between 150,000 and 450,000 per cubic millimeter (µl) of blood in adults. Levels outside this range do not necessarily indicate disease. One common disease that affects thrombocyte levels is thrombocytopenia, a condition characterized by abnormally low levels of thrombocytes in the blood.

See also

• Hemostasis
• Blood clot
• Thrombocytopenia
• Thrombocytosis
• Complete blood count

Thrombocyte Resources
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