PDW
PDW measures how much your platelets vary in size. It helps assess platelet production and destruction.
Category: Complete Blood Count
Also known as: pdw, platelet distribution width
Reference range: 9–17 % (Source: ABIM)
Standard unit: %
High values may indicate
High PDW may indicate active platelet production, often seen in inflammatory conditions or myeloproliferative disorders.
Low values may indicate
Low PDW indicates uniform platelet size and is generally normal.
Frequently asked questions
- What is a normal PDW level?
- A typical reference range for PDW is 9–17 % (source: ABIM). Reference ranges vary by laboratory, age, and sex, so always compare against the range on your own lab report.
- What units is PDW measured in?
- PDW is most commonly reported in %. Labs in different countries may use other units — you can convert between them with BloodId's blood test unit converter.
- Where do PDW reference ranges come from?
- BloodId uses ABIM standard reference ranges and educational information from MedlinePlus (see our methodology). Reference ranges still vary by lab, age, and sex, so always compare against your own report.
- Can I track PDW over time?
- Yes. Upload results from any lab and BloodId charts your PDW over time against its reference range, so you can see whether the trend is rising, falling, or stable.