Thrombocytopenia is a condition in which there aren't enough platelets in your blood. Platelets (thrombocytes) are colorless blood cells that stop bleeding by clumping and forming plugs in blood vessel injuries. Depending on the cause, having low platelets may or may not result in increased bleeding risk.

The most common reason for thrombocytopenia in children is immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). This occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys platelets. Children who develop ITP often have a history of a recent viral infection. Most children recover from ITP without any treatment within six months. Until then, they may need to avoid contact sports or other activities that could result in head injuries.

Less-common causes of thrombocytopenia in children include bone marrow disorders such as leukemia or other autoimmune conditions such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or hereditary bone marrow disorders.

SYMPTOMS

 The major symptoms include

• Easy bruising
• A sprinkling of small purplish spots on the skin
• Nosebleeds
• Bleeding from the gums
• Prolonged bleeding from minor cuts

CAUSES

Children can develop thrombocytopenia if the bone marrow doesn't make enough platelets, the body destroys too many platelets or the spleen retains too many platelets.

These problems can result from:

• Diseases affecting the immune system
• Infections
• Hereditary disorders
• Exposure to certain medications or toxins
• Cancers such as leukemia or lymphoma

DIAGNOSIS

Blood tests can confirm the diagnosis and may provide clues to underlying conditions causing the problem. Rarely, your doctor might suggest a bone marrow biopsy.

TREATMENT

Treatment depends on the cause of your child's thrombocytopenia. In some cases, treatment might not be necessary. Thrombocytopenia may improve if an underlying cause is identified and treated. Treatment for thrombocytopenia may include medications, such as corticosteroids, gamma globulin or immune-suppressing drugs, and blood or platelet transfusions.

You may submit your paper through online at Atherosclerosis  as an attachment to this mail: atherosclerosis@eclinicalsci.com

Steven Edwards
Associate Managing Editor
Atherosclerosis: Open Access