Home Biomarkers P-LCR

P-LCR

Blood clotting Biomarker

Sample Needed

Collection Type: Blood

Body System

Related System: Blood clotting

Overview

P-LCR (Platelet Large Cell Ratio) is the percentage of circulating platelets that are larger than a defined volume (typically >12 fL) measured by automated haematology analyzers. It is a platelet index that reflects platelet size distribution and production dynamics. Higher P-LCR indicates a greater proportion of large, younger platelets produced by the bone marrow (often a response to increased platelet destruction or turnover), while low P-LCR suggests smaller, older platelets or impaired platelet production. It is used alongside platelet count, MPV and PDW to evaluate bleeding or clotting disorders. Indications include unexplained bruising, bleeding, petechiae, thrombocytopenia or thrombocytosis. Values can vary by age (newborns and infants often have different platelet indices), mild sex differences, and between analyzer manufacturers.

People also test for

Test Preparation

No special preparation is required

Why Do I Need This Test

Profile: included in complete blood count/platelet indices or specific “blood clotting”/haematology profiles.
Symptoms suggesting need: unexplained bleeding, easy bruising, petechiae, prolonged bleeding after injury, or abnormal platelet count.
Conditions diagnosed/monitored: immune thrombocytopenia, bone marrow failure, myeloproliferative disorders, recovery after chemotherapy or acute bleeding, and splenic disorders.
Reasons for abnormal levels: increased platelet destruction/consumption (raises P-LCR), reduced marrow production (lowers P-LCR), or marrow hyperactivity.
Biological meaning: high P-LCR = increased young/large platelets (high turnover); low P-LCR = small/old platelets or impaired production.
Lifestyle/factors: smoking, acute inflammation, recent bleeding, splenectomy, and some medications; pre-analytical issues (sample delay, platelet clumping) can alter results.
Family history: inherited thrombocytopenias or myeloproliferative syndromes in relatives may prompt testing.

Run our symptom checker to see if this test is right for you

Symptom Checker

Understanding Test Results

Values <15%: low P-LCR suggests a low proportion of large platelets.
This can reflect decreased bone marrow platelet production (aplastic anemia, marrow infiltration, chemotherapy effect), presence of predominantly small platelets in some inherited thrombocytopenias, or laboratory artifacts.
Correlate with low MPV and platelet count.
15–35%: typical/normal proportion of large platelets for most adults.
When platelet count is normal, isolated normal P-LCR usually carries low immediate concern.
>35–50%: moderately elevated P-LCR indicates increased release of larger, younger platelets from the marrow due to heightened turnover/consumption (immune thrombocytopenia, recent bleeding, recovery phase after marrow suppression) or reactive thrombocytosis.
Evaluate with platelet count, MPV and clinical context.
>50%: markedly elevated P-LCR suggests pronounced platelet turnover or dysregulated megakaryopoiesis (severe immune-mediated destruction, myeloproliferative neoplasm, post-splenectomy state).
High values increase suspicion of active platelet consumption/production imbalance and warrant further hematology evaluation and correlation with symptoms, peripheral smear and bone marrow studies as indicated.
Note: single abnormal P-LCR should be interpreted with platelet count, MPV, PDW, clinical picture and repeat testing if pre-analytical issues (clumping, delayed processing) are suspected.

Normal Range

15-35 %

FAQs

Q: What happens if PLCR is high?

A: A high PLCR means a greater proportion of large (young) platelets in the blood. It typically reflects increased platelet production or high turnover—seen during recovery from bleeding, immune-mediated destruction, inflammation, infection, or myeloproliferative disorders. Large platelets may be more reactive, potentially raising clotting risk. Interpretation requires correlation with platelet count, clinical context and further tests to find the cause.

Q: What is a good PLCR?

A: A good PLCR (platelet large cell ratio) usually falls roughly between 15–35% (some labs use 20–40%). Higher PLCR indicates a larger proportion of big or young platelets, seen with increased platelet production or destruction; low PLCR suggests fewer large platelets, as in bone marrow suppression. Interpret PLCR alongside platelet count and clinical context and discuss abnormal results with your clinician.

Q: What is a P LCR blood test?

A: P-LCR (Platelet Large Cell Ratio) is a CBC-derived platelet index showing the percentage of platelets larger than about 12 fL. It reflects platelet size variability and the proportion of young, larger platelets, helping assess platelet production and activation. Elevated P-LCR can occur with increased platelet turnover or certain disorders; low values suggest reduced marrow platelet production. It’s interpreted with platelet count, MPV, and clinical context.

Q: How to increase PLCr in blood?

A: To raise platelet count (PLCr), address the underlying cause with your doctor. Treatments can include steroids, IVIG, platelet transfusion or thrombopoietin‑receptor agonists when indicated. Supportive measures: a balanced diet rich in iron, folate and B12, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and platelet‑lowering drugs (NSAIDs, some antibiotics), treat infections, and stop smoking. Regular monitoring and specialist guidance are essential.

Q: How to control high p LCR?

A: High P‑LCR (platelet large cell ratio) often reflects increased platelet production or activation. Control focuses on treating underlying causes and lowering cardiovascular risk: manage infections, inflammation, diabetes, high blood pressure and cholesterol; quit smoking, lose weight, exercise regularly, limit alcohol, and review medications. Your doctor may adjust drugs, investigate bone‑marrow causes, or recommend antiplatelet therapy and regular monitoring.

Q: Should I worry if my platelets are high?

A: Not always dangerous platelets often rise with infection, inflammation, iron deficiency, or after surgery and commonly normalize. Persistent or very high counts may reflect a bone-marrow disorder and increase clotting or bleeding risk. See your doctor for repeat CBC and tests (inflammation markers, iron studies, and sometimes bone marrow) if counts stay high or you have symptoms like unexplained bleeding, bruising, chest pain, severe headache, or weakness.