What is the most common cause of low platelet count?
Many things can cause a low platelet count, including
If thrombocytopenia is seen for the first time, it is prudent to repeat the complete blood count in order to exclude pseudothrombocytopenia (see above). If the repeat CBC confirms low platelet count, then further evaluation can begin.
Once detected, the cause of thrombocytopenia may be investigated by the physician. The most essential part of this evaluation includes a thorough physical examination and medical history of the patient. In the medical history, the complete list of all medications is routinely reviewed. Some of the other important components of the history include reviewing previous known history of low platelet count, family history of thrombocytopenia, recent infections, any previous cancers, other autoimmune disorders, or
A review of the symptoms related to excessive bleeding or bruising can also provide additional information. As a part of a thorough physical examination, special attention may be given to the skin and
The severity and specific cause of thrombocytopenia will vary with different low platelet counts. In general, thrombocytopenia does not need to be severe to cause impairment in the ability of the blood to clot. However, a severe thrombocytopenia can have serious complications in some individuals.
What is the most common cause of low platelet count?
When the thrombocytopenia is severe or acute, it can quickly turn up the dial. The good news is that by the time the platelet count gets below 10,000 to 20,000 per microliter, the platelet count recovers to normal. The bad news is that this recovery time varies by disease state and severity.
If thrombocytopenia is detected on a routine blood work, it is generally addressed and investigated by the physician who orders the
test. In people with HIT, it is very important to remove and limit the future use of any heparin products, including low molecular weight heparin (like Lovenox), immediately to prevent further immune response against the platelets.
The prognosis for someone with thrombocytopenia depends on the cause and the severity of the disease. Generally, when thrombocytopenia is diagnosed early, the outcomes are very good. However, delayed diagnosis can result in problems ranging from
Anemia is the condition of having less than the normal number of red blood cells or less than the normal quantity of hemoglobin in the blood. The oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood is, therefore, decreased.
