Definition:
A type of blood cell that prevents bleeding by forming clots.
If someone has a low platelet count (thrombocytopenia), for example from chemotherapy for lung cancer, they are more likely to bleed. A complete blood count (CBC) is done before and after chemotherapy to check on the level of platelets.
Also Known As: thrombocytes
Examples:
Evelyn began having nosebleeds after chemotherapy because her platelet count was low.
