
Platelets are irregularly-shaped, colorless anuclear cells that are present in blood. They circulate in the blood and are involved in hemostasis, leading to the formation of blood clots. The average lifespan of a platelet is between 8 and 12 days. If the number of platelets is too low, excessive bleeding can occur. However, if the number of platelets is too high, blood clots can form (thrombosis), which may obstruct blood vessels and result in a stroke and/or a heart attack.