Thrombocytopenia

Thrombocytopenia

What is Thrombocytopenia?

Thrombocytopenia 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

Symptoms
  • easy bruising
  • blood in the poo or urine
  • cuts that keep bleeding
  • feeling tired
  • abnormal bleeding (nose bleeds, bleeding gums, heavy periods)
  • pinpoint bleeding in the skin that looks like a purplish-red rash (known as petechiae)
Complications
  • Bleeding gums
  • Blood in urine or stools
  • Bruising easily
  • Heavy menstrual bleeding
  • Bleeding
  • Purpura
  • Enlarged spleen
  • Fatigue
  • Petechiae
Causes
  • aplastic anaemia (when the body stops making blood cells)
  • some immune diseases, blood clotting disorders, inherited disorders or bleeding disorders.
  • pregnancy
  • medications
  • cancers, such as leukaemia, or cancer treatments including chemotherapy.
  • infection in the bone marrow
  • an enlarged spleen
Risk factors
  • Leukemia and other cancers.
  • Some types of anemia.
  • Viral infections, such as hepatitis C or HIV.
  • Chemotherapy drugs and radiation therapy.
  • Heavy alcohol consumption.
Prevention

Try to avoid contact with toxic chemicals. Chemicals such as pesticides, arsenic, and benzene can slow the production of platelets. Avoid medicines that you know have decreased your platelet count in the past.

Be aware of medicines that may affect your platelets and raise your risk of bleeding.

How is it diagnosed?

How is it diagnosed?

The first-choice drug might be a corticosteroid. If that doesn't work, stronger medications can be used to suppress your immune system. Surgery. If other treatments don't help, your doctor might recommend surgery to remove your spleen (splenectomy).

How is it treated?

Treatment for acute myeloid leukemia is vital. It varies with the patient and stage of the disease. Treatment options include

  • Steroids: These medications may boost your platelet production.
  • Blood transfusion: If your platelet level is very low, your healthcare provider may use blood transfusions to temporarily increase your platelet levels.
  • Splenectomy: This is surgery to remove your spleen.

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