Platelets

Platelets are small, irregularly shaped cells found in the blood of humans and other mammals. They are important components of the immune system, helping to protect against infection and foreign particles. They also play a role in healing and helping to stop bleeding by forming a blood clot when an artery or vein is damaged. Platelets are essential for normal blood clotting and are used as therapeutics in many medical treatments. Platelets are used to treat conditions such as thrombocytopenia, a low platelet count due to a variety of causes; and for prevention of bleeding during and after surgery. Platelets also play a role in research, such as in studies of the genetics of diseases where platelet collections are used.