Guest guest Posted February 14, 2008 Report Share Posted February 14, 2008 In case anyone else was confused about yet another new illness/symptom/word was, here is what Thrombocytopenia is..Butch Thrombocytopenia Contents of this page: Definition Causes Symptoms Exams and Tests Outlook (Prognosis) Possible Complications When to Contact a Medical Professional Prevention Definition Thrombocytopenia is any disorder in which there are not enough platelets. Platelets are cells in the blood that help blood to clot. This condition is sometimes associated with abnormal bleeding. Causes Thrombocytopenia is often divided into three major causes of low platelets: Low production of platelets in the bone marrow Increased breakdown of platelets in the bloodstream (called intravascular) Increased breakdown of platelets in the spleen or liver (called extravascular) Disorders that involve low production in the bone marrow include: Aplastic anemia Cancer in the bone marrow Infections in the bone marrow (rare) Drugs (very rare) Disorders that involve the breakdown of platelets include: Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) Drug-induced immune thrombocytopenia Drug-induced nonimmune thrombocytopenia Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) Hypersplenism Symptoms Bruising Nosebleeds or bleeding in the mouth Rash (pinpoint red spots) Other symptoms may be present as well, depending on the cause of the condition. Mild thrombocytopenia can occur without symptoms. Exams and Tests CBC shows low platelets Bone marrow aspiration or biopsy may be normal or may show low megakaryocytes (platelet precursors) or an infiltrating disease. PTT clotting study is normal PT clotting study is normal Platelet associated antibodies may be present Treatment Treatment depends on the cause of the condition. In some cases, a transfusion of platelets may be required to stop or prevent bleeding. Outlook (Prognosis) The outcome depends on the disorder causing the low platelet counts. Possible Complications Hemorrhage Gastrointestinal bleeding (vomiting blood or blood in the stools) Bleeding in the brain (intracranial hemorrhage) When to Contact a Medical Professional Call your healthcare provider if you experience unexplained bleeding or bruising. Prevention Prevention depends on the specific cause. Update Date: 9/20/2006 Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Yahoo! Mobile. Try it now. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted February 16, 2008 Report Share Posted February 16, 2008 How does Danazol effect tx? Does it alter the treatment in any way? Can it be used while you are on tx or must you wait until you've stopped? My platlete count is low but not dangerous. It would be good to know that there is a treatment other than platelete or whole blood infusion. Steve... Looking for last minute shopping deals? Find them fast with Yahoo! Search. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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