Categories

Main Causes of Low Platelet Count

Overview

Thrombocytopenia is the medical term for low platelet count. This describes the condition of having too few platelets in your blood. Platelets are colorless blood cells that help your blood clot. They help to stop bleeding and seal ruptures in your blood vessels. Thrombocytopenia is typically diagnosed when you have less than 150,000 platelets per microliter [1] of blood.

Both adults and children can have a low platelet count. There are several reasons you may have a low platelet count. It could be a side effect of a medication or arise from something as serious as a bone marrow disease. Tests are usually required to narrow down the cause if it is unclear.

The symptoms of this condition may range from mild to severe. The severity of symptoms usually depends on how serious the deficit of these blood cells is. Some can be severe enough to cause internal bleeding.

Thankfully, many cases of thrombocytopenia can be treated. The treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the condition. This article discusses some factors and conditions that can cause you to have a low platelet count.