OverviewThrombocytopenia is a condition in which you have a low blood platelet count. Platelets (thrombocytes) are colorless blood cells that help blood clot. Platelets stop bleeding by clumping and forming plugs in blood vessel injuries. Show
Thrombocytopenia might occur as a result of a bone marrow disorder such as leukemia or an immune system problem. Or it can be a side effect of taking certain medications. It affects both children and adults. Thrombocytopenia can be mild and cause few signs or symptoms. In rare cases, the number of platelets can be so low that dangerous internal bleeding occurs. Treatment options are available. SymptomsThrombocytopenia signs and symptoms may include:
When to see a doctorMake an appointment with your doctor if you have signs of thrombocytopenia that worry you. Bleeding that won't stop is a medical emergency. Seek immediate help for bleeding that can't be controlled by the usual first-aid techniques, such as applying pressure to the area. Sign up for free, and stay up to date on research advancements, health tips and current health topics, like COVID-19, plus expertise on managing health. To provide you with the most relevant and helpful information, and understand which information is
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unsubscribe link in the e-mail. CausesThrombocytopenia means you have fewer than 150,000 platelets per microliter of circulating blood. Because each platelet lives only about 10 days, your body normally renews your platelet supply continually by producing new platelets in your bone marrow. Thrombocytopenia rarely is inherited; or it can be caused by a number of medications or conditions. Whatever the cause, circulating platelets are reduced by one or more of the following processes: trapping of platelets in the spleen, decreased platelet production or increased destruction of platelets. Trapped plateletsThe spleen is a small organ about the size of your fist situated just below your rib cage on the left side of your abdomen. Normally, your spleen works to fight infection and filter unwanted material from your blood. An enlarged spleen — which can be caused by a number of disorders — can harbor too many platelets, which decreases the number of platelets in circulation. Decreased production of plateletsPlatelets are produced in your bone marrow. Factors that can decrease platelet production include:
Increased breakdown of plateletsSome conditions can cause your body to use up or destroy platelets faster than they're produced, leading to a shortage of platelets in your bloodstream. Examples of such conditions include:
ComplicationsDangerous internal bleeding can occur when your platelet count falls below 10,000 platelets per microliter. Though rare, severe thrombocytopenia can cause bleeding into the brain, which can be fatal. Which diagnostic test can detect distraction of circulating platelets as the cause of thrombocytopenia?Complete blood count (CBC): A CBC is a blood test that measures the number of white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets in the blood. This test also measures the size of the blood cell types. Thrombocytopenia is diagnosed when the platelet levels are lower than normal.
How do you diagnose thrombocytopenia?Diagnosis. Blood test. A complete blood count determines the number of blood cells, including platelets, in a sample of your blood.. Physical exam, including a complete medical history. Your doctor will look for signs of bleeding under your skin and feel your abdomen to see if your spleen is enlarged.. Which laboratory result is consistent with a diagnosis of thrombocytopenia?A complete blood count (CBC) measures the levels of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in your blood. For this test, a small amount of blood is drawn from a blood vessel, usually in your arm. If you have thrombocytopenia, the results of this test will show that your platelet count is low.
What are the main causes of thrombocytopenia?Factors that can decrease platelet production include:. Leukemia and other cancers.. Some types of anemia.. Viral infections, such as hepatitis C or HIV.. Chemotherapy drugs and radiation therapy.. Heavy alcohol consumption.. |