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Thrombocytopenia is a medical condition characterised by low levels of platelets in the blood, typically below 150000 platelets per microliter. The severity of thrombocytopenia can be classified into three categories based on platelet count levels. Mild thrombocytopenia is diagnosed when platelet counts range from 100000 to 150000, moderate thrombocytopenia is identified when platelet counts are between 50000 to 99000, and severe thrombocytopenia occurs when the platelet count falls below 50000 per microliter.
Thrombocytopenia is a relatively common condition, with an estimated prevalence of around 1 in 10,000 people in the general population. However, the incidence and prevalence of thrombocytopenia can vary depending on the underlying cause of the condition and can occur in both adults and children.
Causes for Thrombocytopenia
Thrombocytopenia can develop due to various factors and medical conditions. According to hematologists in Mysore, the most common causes of thrombocytopenia that decrease platelet production in the bone marrow include leukaemia, lymphoma, myelodysplastic syndrome, and aplastic anaemia. Accelerated platelet destruction can also cause thrombocytopenia and may be triggered by autoimmune disorders, certain medications, infections, or specific types of cancer. Some medications can trigger an immune response that destroys platelets, while viral infections like HIV or hepatitis C can harm the bone marrow and cause immune-mediated platelet destruction. Thrombocytopenia can also occur due to increased platelet destruction or removal by the spleen or liver, as seen in conditions like liver disease or immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). Additionally, thrombocytopenia can occur due to the abnormal pooling or distribution of platelets in the body, as seen in conditions such as hypersplenism or disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). Haemodilution, which refers to a decrease in the concentration of blood components, including platelets, due to an increase in plasma volume, can also contribute to thrombocytopenia. This can occur due to fluid overload, excessive blood transfusions, or overhydration.
Symptoms of Thrombocytopenia
The severity of thrombocytopenia can impact the range of symptoms experienced. Common symptoms may include bleeding gums or nosebleeds, small red or purple spots on the skin, easy bruising, excessive bleeding, or prolonged bleeding from cuts or injuries. While some individuals may not experience symptoms and only detect the condition through routine blood tests, others may exhibit additional symptoms related to any underlying medical condition causing thrombocytopenia. Consulting a healthcare professional is important if these symptoms are present or if there are concerns regarding low platelet levels.
Diagnosis and Treatment Procedures for Thrombocytopenia
To diagnose thrombocytopenia, healthcare providers, at the best hematology hospital in Mysore, conduct a thorough medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests to determine the underlying cause of the low platelet count. Blood tests, including a complete blood count (CBC) with a blood smear examination, measure the platelet count and assess the size and shape of platelets. Other tests, such as liver and renal function tests, a coagulation profile in cases of DIC, checking levels of vitamin B12 and folic acid, and a bone marrow aspiration and biopsy, may be required to identify the cause of thrombocytopenia.
The treatment of thrombocytopenia depends on the underlying cause, the severity of the condition, and individual factors. Healthcare providers may recommend observation and monitoring for mild cases. However, for more severe cases, treatment may include medications, platelet transfusions, or treatment of underlying conditions.
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