Thrombocytopenia

What is Thrombocytopenia?

• Platelets (thrombocytes) are essential for blood clotting, helping to stop bleeding.
• A reduced platelet count increases the risk of easy bruising and bleeding.
• Normal platelet count: 150,000–450,000/µL
• Thrombocytopenia: <150,000/µL
• Severe risk: <10,000–20,000/µL → risk of spontaneous bleeding

Symptoms of Thrombocytopenia

• Blood in urine or stool
• Internal bleeding
• Excessive bleeding after injury or surgery
• Easy bruising (purpura)
• Petechiae (small red/purple spots on skin)
• Prolonged bleeding from cuts
• Bleeding gums or nosebleeds

Causes of Thrombocytopenia

• Decreased Platelet Production
  • Bone marrow disorders (e.g., leukemia, aplastic anemia)
  • Viral infections
  • Chemotherapy or radiation
  • Vitamin deficiencies (B12, folate)
• Increased Platelet Destruction
  • Autoimmune conditions (e.g., immune thrombocytopenia – ITP)
  • Medications (drug-induced)
  • Infections
  • Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)
• Platelet Sequestration
  • Enlarged spleen (splenomegaly) traps platelets

Diagnosis of Thrombocytopenia

• Laboratory Tests
  • Complete Blood Count (CBC) → confirms low platelets
  • Peripheral blood smear
  • Bone marrow examination
  • Tests for underlying causes

Treatment of Thrombocytopenia

• Mild Cases
  • May require no treatment
  • Regular monitoring
• Moderate to Severe Cases
  • Corticosteroids (immune-related causes)
  • Immunoglobulin therapy (IVIG)
  • Platelet transfusion (in emergencies)
  • Treat underlying condition
  • Splenectomy (selected cases)
  • Thrombopoietin receptor agonists