Thrombocytopenia

Thrombocytopenia

Introduction:

At Surya Hospital’s Hematology Clinic, we are experts in the treatment of blood problems such as thrombocytopenia. It is believed that thrombocytopenia affects 1% to 3% of the global population. We aim to provide you with a thorough overview of thrombocytopenia, its causes, many forms, prevalent symptoms, and treatment options accessible at our institution.

What exactly is Thrombocytopenia?

A low platelet count characterises thrombocytopenia which falls under the category of blood conditions. Platelets are blood cells that play an important part in stopping of bleeding. Excessive bleeding after injury or spontaneous bleeding can occur when the platelet count is too low.

Thrombocytopenia Causes:

Thrombocytopenia can be caused by a number of factors, including:

• Platelet production is reduced in certain medical disorders such as aplastic anaemia, leukaemia, and myelodysplastic syndromes.
• Increased platelet destruction: Autoimmune diseases, in which the body’s immune system incorrectly attacks and destroys its own platelets, can result in thrombocytopenia.
• Medications and treatments: As a side effect of some medications, such as some antibiotics or chemotherapy treatments, can induce a reduction in platelet count. Radiation therapy may also potentially have an impact on platelet production.
• Inherited disorders: Some people are predisposed to low platelet counts due to genetic diseases.

Thrombocytopenia Types:

There are several forms of thrombocytopenia, each with its own set of causes and symptoms. Some examples of frequent types are:

• Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP): This thrombocytopenia happens when the immune system destroys platelets by mistake.
• TTP (thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura): TTP is a rare but serious illness that causes blood clots in tiny blood channels which further leads to platelet consumption and decreased platelet count.
• Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT): This type of thrombocytopenia is produced by an immunological response to the blood-thinning drug heparin.
• Drug-induced thrombocytopenia: As an adverse effect, some drugs can produce a reduction in platelet count.

Thrombocytopenia Symptoms:

Thrombocytopenia symptoms might vary based on the underlying cause and severity of the disorder. Among the most common symptoms are:

• Simple bruising can occur as a result of slight trauma or pressure.
• Bleeding from wounds or injuries can take longer to cease or be more difficult to manage.
• Petechiae: Tiny red or purple spots on the skin caused by little bleeding beneath the skin’s surface.
• Excessive nosebleeds or gum bleeding
• Excessive or prolonged menstrual periods
• Blood in the urine or stools

Thrombocytopenia Treatment:

We offer comprehensive thrombocytopenia treatment options at Surya Hospital’s Hematology Clinic. The specific treatment plan will be determined by the underlying cause, severity, and demands of the individual patient. Among the most prevalent treatment methods are:

• Medicines: Depending on the kind and cause of thrombocytopenia, drugs that encourage platelet synthesis or reduce immune responses that kill platelets may be recommended.
• Platelet transfusions: Platelet transfusions may be used to enhance platelet count in cases of severe thrombocytopenia or during acute bleeding episodes.
• IVIG (intravenous immune globulin): IVIG is a treatment option for immune-mediated thrombocytopenia that works by blocking the immune response that kills platelets.
• Splenectomy: Surgical excision of the spleen may be considered in some circumstances to decrease platelet damage.
• Bone marrow transplant: For people with severe thrombocytopenia and underlying bone marrow diseases, a bone marrow transplant to replace flawed bone marrow with good cells may be explored.

We recognise the impact of thrombocytopenia on your health and quality of life at Surya Hospital’s Hematology Clinic. Our expert doctors are dedicated to providing accurate diagnosis, personalised treatment strategies, and continuing support throughout your journey. If you or a loved one are having thrombocytopenia symptoms or need further information, please contact us. We can manage thrombocytopenia better together.

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