Always slightly low platelets on bloodtest

[Poorfellla]

Hello. I've always had low platelets on my bloodwork for the last several years. Not alarmingly low but always hovering around the 105-145 area when reference range is 150-450. Is this normal or should I look deeper into it?

[specialmom]

Well, slightly low is not usually an issue.  In order to cause a real health problem with clotting, the numbers have to be extremely low and much lower than your normal range.  However, you can speak to your doctor about why you are always on the low side.  There could be an underlying condition leading to this.  You could have a slight issue with your spleen trapping platelets so they don't fully circulate in blood, you could have an autoimmune issue beginning such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus -- but would have other symptoms),  you could have decreased platelet production due to something with your bone marrow but those types of issues usually have a drastic reduction in platelets rather than a consistent 'slightly' lower number, however anemia can do that too which is common, if you are a heavy drinker of alcohol, you could have reduced production in the bone marrow, some medications can cause decreased platelets, and a few other things.  

But overall, your doctor would tell you if they were concerned.  So, I wouldn't be, however, it is worth asking about at your next doctor's visit.  good luck