Thrombocytopenia is any disorder in which there are not enough platelets. Platelets are cells in the blood that help blood to clot. This condition is sometimes associated with abnormal bleeding.
Thrombocytopenia is often divided into three major causes of low platelets: Disorders that involve low production in the bone marrow include: Disorders that involve the breakdown of platelets include:
Other symptoms may be present as well, depending on the cause of the condition. Mild thrombocytopenia can occur without symptoms.
Treatment depends on the cause of the condition. In some cases, a transfusion of platelets may be required to stop or prevent bleeding.
The outcome depends on the disorder causing the low platelet counts.
Call your healthcare provider if you experience unexplained bleeding or bruising.
Prevention depends on the specific cause.
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Reviewer Info: Corey Cutler, MD, MPH, FRCP(C), Assistant Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.; ADAM Health Illustrated Encyclopedia, 09/20/2006 |