Thrombocytopenia
Definition
Thrombocytopenia is any disorder in which there is an abnormally low amount of platelets. Platelets are parts of the blood that help blood to clot. This condition is sometimes associated with abnormal bleeding.
Causes
Thrombocytopenia is often divided into three major causes of low platelets:
- Low production of platelets in the bone marrow
- Increased breakdown of platelets in the bloodstream (called intravascular)
- Increased breakdown of platelets in the spleen or liver (called extravascular)
Disorders that involve low production in the bone marrow include:
- Aplastic anemia
- Cancer in the bone marrow
- Cirrhosis (chronic liver disease)
- Folate deficiency
- Infections in the bone marrow (very rare)
- Myelodysplasia
- Vitamin B12 deficiency
Use of certain drugs may also lead to a low production of platelets in the bone marrow. The most common example is chemotherapy treatment.
Disorders that involve the breakdown of platelets include:
- Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)
- Drug-induced nonimmune thrombocytopenia
- Drug-induced immune thrombocytopenia
- Hypersplenism
- Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)
- Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
Symptoms
- Bruising
- Nosebleeds or bleeding in the mouth and gums
- Rash (pinpoint red spots called petechiae)
Other symptoms may be present as well, depending on the cause of the condition. Mild thrombocytopenia can occur without symptoms.
Exams and Tests
Complete blood count (CBC) shows low number of platelets. Blood clotting studies (PTT and PT) are normal.
Other tests that may help diagnose this condition include:
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause of the condition. In some cases, a transfusion of platelets may be required to stop or prevent bleeding.
Outlook (Prognosis)
The outcome depends on the disorder causing the low platelet counts.
Possible Complications
Severe bleeding (hemorrhage) is the main complication. This can include:
- Bleeding in the brain (intracranial hemorrhage)
- Gastrointestinal bleeding (vomiting blood or blood in the stools)
- Nosebleeds
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call your healthcare provider if you experience unexplained bleeding or bruising.
Prevention
Prevention depends on the specific cause.
References
McMillan R. Hemorrhagic disorders: abnormalities of platelet and vascular function. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 179.
Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; Yi-Bin Chen, MD, Leukemia/Bone Marrow Transplant Program, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website, and its associated websites, is provided as a benefit to the local community, and the Internet community in general; it does not constitute medical advice. We try to provide quality information, but we make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to this website and its associated sites. As medical advice must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each patient and healthcare is constantly changing, nothing provided herein should be used as a substitute for the advice of a competent physician. Furthermore, in providing this service, Adventist HealthCare does not condone or support all of the content covered in this site. As an Adventist health care organization, Adventist HealthCare acts in accordance with the ethical and religious directives for Adventist health care services.
Adventist HealthCare · 301-315-3030 · 1801 Research BLVD, Suite 400, Rockville, MD 20850
Get Care
Health & Wellness
Patient Information
Website Information
Ways of Giving
