Acquired Qualitative Platelet Disorder - Acquired Platelet Function Disorder

How is the condition diagnosed?

Diagnosis of acquired platelet function defect begins with a medical history and physical exam. A blood test called a complete blood count, or CBC, is often done first. This test counts the number and types of cells in the blood.

If the platelet count is in a healthy range, a test called the bleeding time can help confirm the diagnosis. In this test, the forearm is scratched to cause a small area of bleeding. The amount of time it takes for the scratch to stop bleeding is then measured. When the platelets are not working properly, this time will be longer than normal.

More specialized tests of platelet function may also be done. These tests can help detect the exact type and severity of the problem.