What is another term used to refer to a platelet?

A platelet is also known as a thrombocyte. This term is used to describe the small, disc-shaped cell fragments that are critical for the blood clotting process. When a blood vessel is injured, platelets aggregate at the site to form a temporary plug, which is essential in preventing excessive bleeding.

The other terms provided refer to different components of the blood. Erythrocytes are red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen, leukocytes are white blood cells involved in the immune response, and plasma cells are a type of white blood cell that produces antibodies. Therefore, the term thrombocyte specifically highlights the platelet's role in coagulation and distinguishes it from these other types of blood cells.