Thrombocytopenia

Medium urgency
--

Thrombocytopenia is an abnormally low amount of platelets in the blood. Possible causes include: insufficient production of platelets in the bone marrow, increased breakdown of platelets in the bloodstream, and increased breakdown of platelets in the spleen or liver. People with thrombocytopenia may have no symptoms; when symptoms do occur, they are usually due to some type of bleeding or its consequences. The diagnosis is made by reviewing the patient's medical history, clinical examination, and a blood test with a platelet count. Treatment depends on the cause of the condition.

Bibliographic references
  1. James N George, Donald M Arnold. Approach to the adult with unexplained thrombocytopenia. UpToDate. Aug 22, 2016.
  2. van Bladel ER, Laarhoven AG, van der Heijden LB, et al. Functional platelet defects in children with severe chronic ITP as tested with 2 novel assays applicable for low platelet counts. Blood 2014; 123:1556.
  3. Williamson DR, Albert M, Heels-Ansdell D, et al. Thrombocytopenia in critically ill patients receiving thromboprophylaxis: frequency, risk factors, and outcomes. Chest 2013; 144:1207.
  4. Sheikh MY, Raoufi R, Atla PR, et al. Prevalence of cirrhosis in patients with thrombocytopenia who receive bone marrow biopsy. Saudi J Gastroenterol 2012; 18:257.
  5. Mendes FD, Suzuki A, Sanderson SO, et al. Prevalence and indicators of portal hypertension in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2012; 10:1028.
  6. Handin RI. Trastornos de la coagulación y trombosis. Harrison. Manual de Medicina. 16º edición. 285-291.
Author
Dr. Elvira Moreno
Copyright
© TeckelMedical 2026

Symptoms

    Red spotting on the skin - petechiae


    Skin purpura


    Gum bleeding


    Superficial bruising on the skin


    Nosebleed

Pre-hospital care recommendations

Avoid hitting your head.