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Thrombocytopenia

Description

Thrombocytopenia means a reduction in the platelet count below the normal lower limit of 100,000 per cubic mL. This can have a variety of causes, including a reduction in platelet production, a reduction in platelet survival, and dilution of platelet numbers resulting from the transfusion of platelet-poor blood.

Causes1,2

Disorders Affecting Platelet Production

Congenital

Acquired

Decreased Platelet Survival

Dilutional Thrombocytopaenia

This is caused by transfusion of large volumes of blood which may be depleted of functioning platelets resulting from prolonged storage.

Presentation, Investigations and Management

See Thrombocytopathy.


Document References
  1. Thrombocytopaenia (GPN)
  2. Thiagarajan, P; Platelet Disorders eMedicine.com 2006

Internet and Further Reading Acknowledgements EMIS is grateful to Dr Laurence Knott for writing this article. The final copy has passed scrutiny by the independent Mentor GP reviewing team. ©EMIS 2007.
DocID: 4187
Document Version: 1
DocRef: bgp26047
Last Updated: 1 May 2007
Review Date: 30 Apr 2009


















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