Thrombocytopenia is a condition characterized by abnormally low platelet counts in the blood, typically below 150,000 platelets per microliter. It is caused by bone marrow disorders, autoimmune destruction of platelets, certain medications like sirolimus, viral infections including COVID-19, or increased platelet consumption. The Complete Blood Count (CBC) with Differential and Platelets is the most important test for diagnosing thrombocytopenia because it directly measures platelet levels and provides Mean Platelet Volume (MPV) data.
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Thrombocytopenia is caused by three main mechanisms: decreased platelet production in the bone marrow, increased destruction of platelets, or abnormal distribution of platelets in the body. Decreased production can result from bone marrow disorders like aplastic anemia, leukemia, or chemotherapy side effects. Increased destruction often occurs through autoimmune conditions where your immune system mistakenly attacks platelets, viral infections like HIV or hepatitis C, or medications including sirolimus, heparin, and certain antibiotics. Other causes include excessive alcohol consumption, pregnancy complications, and infections such as COVID-19 that can trigger platelet destruction or consumption.
The Complete Blood Count (CBC) with Differential and Platelets is the most important test for thrombocytopenia because it directly measures your platelet count and provides the definitive diagnosis when levels fall below 150,000 per microliter. This test also includes Mean Platelet Volume (MPV), which reveals whether your bone marrow is responding appropriately by producing new platelets or if production is impaired. For patients who recently had COVID-19, the Post COVID-19 Expanded Panel is essential as it measures platelet counts while screening for other post-viral complications. If you take immunosuppressive medications like sirolimus, the Sirolimus LC/MS/MS test is critical because it monitors drug levels that can cause thrombocytopenia as a side effect.
You should get tested if you notice easy bruising that appears without obvious injury, small red or purple spots on your skin called petechiae, bleeding gums when brushing your teeth, unusually heavy menstrual periods, or nosebleeds that occur frequently or are difficult to stop. Testing is also important if you have prolonged bleeding from minor cuts, blood in your urine or stool, or if you are taking medications known to affect platelet counts. Anyone recovering from COVID-19 or other viral infections who experiences unusual bleeding or bruising should get tested promptly, as thrombocytopenia can develop as a complication.
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What this means
Your hemoglobin is slightly below the optimal range, indicating mild anemia. This means your blood isn't carrying quite enough oxygen to your body's tissues, which can explain feelings of fatigue, weakness, or occasional shortness of breath. With proper nutrition and possibly supplementation, this typically improves within a few months.
Recommended actions
Increase iron-rich foods like lean red meat, beans, lentils, and dark leafy greens
Pair iron sources with vitamin C foods (citrus, tomatoes, bell peppers) to boost absorption
Consider an iron supplement after consulting with your doctor about the right dosage
Retest in 8-12 weeks to monitor improvement after dietary changes
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