Platelets are an essential part of our blood responsible for clotting to prevent excessive bleeding.

If the number of platelets in your blood is lower than normal, a condition called thrombocytopenia, you may experience uncontrolled and prolonged bleeding even with minor injuries. Low platelet count can occur due to several factors such as genetic disorders, infections, autoimmune diseases, medications, and some cancers.

Causes of low platelet count

Genetic disorders

A number of genetic disorders can lead to low platelet counts. For example, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects the immune system and blood clotting.

It is characterized by low platelet counts, eczema, and recurrent infections. Another genetic disorder that causes low platelets is Fanconi anemia, an inherited condition that leads to bone marrow failure, abnormal growth, and low blood cell counts.

Infections

Some viral and bacterial infections can lead to low platelet counts. Examples include dengue fever, Zika virus, hepatitis C, HIV, and Epstein-Barr virus.

In some cases, infections may cause the immune system to attack platelets leading to a condition called immune thrombocytopenia (ITP).

Autoimmune diseases

Autoimmune diseases occur when the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues and cells. Autoimmune diseases such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis can lead to low platelet counts.

Medications

Certain medications can cause low platelet counts. For example, chemotherapy drugs used to treat cancer can suppress bone marrow production leading to low blood cell counts, including platelets.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antibiotics, and some seizure medications can also cause low platelet counts.

Cancers

Some cancers such as leukemia and lymphomas can cause low platelet counts. These types of cancers affect the bone marrow responsible for producing blood cells, including platelets.

Associated conditions

Bleeding disorders

Low platelet counts can lead to bleeding disorders such as easy bruising, petechiae, or spontaneous bleeding. Bleeding disorders can be life-threatening if the platelet counts are very low.

Pregnancy complications

Low platelet counts during pregnancy can cause complications such as premature delivery, bleeding, and in rare cases, the development of a serious pregnancy-related condition called HELLP syndrome, which can lead to liver failure and death.

Hemolytic uremic syndrome

Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) is a rare but serious condition characterized by hemolytic anemia (a type of anemia), low platelet counts, and acute kidney failure. HUS most commonly affects children and is usually caused by infection with E.

coli bacteria that produce a toxin.

Treatment side effects

Treatments for low platelet counts such as platelet transfusions and immunosuppressive therapy can cause side effects such as allergic reactions, infections, and blood clots.

Bone marrow failure

In some cases, low platelet counts can be a sign of bone marrow failure, a condition in which the bone marrow is unable to produce enough blood cells, including platelets.

Conclusion

Low platelet counts can have various causes and associated conditions. If you experience symptoms of low platelet counts such as bruising, bleeding gums, and prolonged bleeding, talk to your doctor immediately.

Treatment options depend on the underlying cause and severity of the condition.