What Is the Meaning of Low Platelets?

Platelets are cytoplasmic bodies shaped like discs. These platelets are found in blood and help the blood clot, which slows or stops bleeding. Low platelet levels can have a serious effect on this process.

Thrombocytopenia

• Thrombocytopenia, also called low platelets, is a situation in which the number of platelets in the body drop below normal.

Complications

• Low platelet levels can lead to severe bleeding, as the body is not able to clot blood.

Symptoms

• Those with low platelet counts will bleed heavily when cut or during surgery. Blood might flow out of the skin, nose and gums. Those with low platelet counts bruise very easily. Women have very heavy periods.

Causes

• Low platelets can be caused by leukemia, anemia, pregnancy, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, blood poisoning, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura and hemolytic uremic syndrome.

Diagnosis

• Blood tests are used to diagnose low platelets.

Treatment

• Treatment involves using medication that fights antibodies that destroy platelets, the removal of the spleen and blood transfusions.