Which laboratory value is least likely to be affected by physiological changes of aging?

The laboratory value that is least likely to be affected by the physiological changes of aging is the platelet range. As individuals age, they may experience various changes in blood cell production and function, but platelet levels remain relatively stable across different ages.

In older adults, while red blood cell values, white blood cell counts, and hemoglobin values can be influenced by factors such as chronic health conditions, nutritional deficiencies, or bone marrow function, the platelet levels are typically maintained within a normal range unless there is a specific underlying pathology. This is partly because the body has effective regulatory mechanisms in place for maintaining platelet production and function.

Thus, understanding that platelet counts show a strong resilience to the common physiological changes associated with aging can help healthcare professionals interpret laboratory results in older adults more effectively.