Thrombocytopenia is an illness caused by lower than normal platelet count. It can be caused by insufficient platelet production, spleen retention, or over-destruction or over-consumption of platelets. No matter what causes it, severe thrombocytopenia can cause bleeding. Bleeding symptoms include multiple petechiae (most commonly in lower legs), mucosal bleeding (nose, gastrointestinal and vaginal bleeding) and heavy bleeding after surgery. Heavy bleeding in gastrointestinal tract or central nervous system can be life threatening. Treatment of thrombocytopenia varies depending on the cause and severity. Patients should get blood transfusion if there are obvious anemia symptoms.
How is Thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) treated in practice?