Low Platelet Count Due To Itp Or Hcv Infection

Overview

Low platelet count also known as thrombocytopenia is a state of low number of platelets in the blood. Platelet is a type of blood cell which helps in blood clotting. Low platelet count is a common complication in immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) and hepatitis C virus infection (HCV). Low platelet count in immune thrombocytopenic purpura occurs when the body's own immune system starts destroying the healthy platelets which are recognized as a foreign body. Whereas in hepatitis C virus infection, low platelet counts are due to various factors such as immune dysfunction, bone marrow suppression, hypersplenism, and decreased thrombopoietin levels. Signs and symptoms of a low platelet count are petechiae, purpura, easy bruising, prolonged bleeding, excessive bleeding either from gums, nose or wounds, hematuria, blood in the stool, heavy menstrual bleeding and fatigue. Low platelet count in these conditions can be diagnosed through history, physical examination, and serum platelet levels. Management will be the treatment of the underlying cause, platelet transfusions, and plasma exchange.