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Most lab reports will flag any value that is high or low in relation to the reference range. Sometimes the flag is just an asterick (*), or sometimes they use "h" for high and "l" for low. Based on what you wrote, 271 would be 271K and is a very good platelet count and is within the normal range.
The counts most of us with SAA track are WBC, LYMPH, ANC or GRAN, HGB, HCT and PLT. All are important but most of us focus on the above because they are the critical numbers to watch. ANC for risk of infection, Platelets for risk of bleeding, and HGB/HCT to determine if red cells are needed.
Most have transfusion goals for platelets and red cells based on these numbers and symptoms. It's also useful to track trends...upward or downward trends to monitor your progress.
Take a look at the link Neil posted to better understand your white count.
With platelets at 271, I would push my doc to figure out why you are having petechiae. They can also check your clotting factors to see how well you clot.
It is always good to get a second opinion and one from a really experienced doc who has dealt with SAA.
Marlene
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Marlene, wife to John DX w/SAA April 2002, Stable partial remission; Treated with High Dose Cytoxan, Johns Hopkins, June 2002. Final phlebotomy 11/2016. As of July 2021 HGB 12.0, WBC 4.70/ANC 3.85, Plts 110K.
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