The outcome depends on the specific disorder and the severity of its symptoms. Platelet function disorders range from life-threatening conditions to easily treated or little-noticed problems.

Inherited platelet function disorders cannot be prevented except by genetic counseling ; however, some acquired function disorders may be guarded against by avoiding substances that trigger the disorder.

Disorders of the bone marrow and systemic conditions can cause an elevated platelet count. An elevated platelet count is known as thrombocytosis. A high platelet count can signal a more serious blood problem known as a myeloproliferative disorder

Common symptoms of platelet function disorders include bleeding from the nose, mouth, vagina, or anus; pinpoint bruises and purplish patches on the skin; and abnormally heavy menstrual bleeding.

Factors that can cause a high platelet count are conditions like cancer, iron-deficiency anemia, inflammatory bowel disease, kidney disorder, pancreatitis, tuberculosis, and certain medication. When high platelet counts are high, the medical term for this condition is thrombocytosis.