A low platelet count is one of the most characteristic symptoms of dengue, but it is not limited to the viral infection and can occur due to several other causes. The condition, also known as thrombocytopenia, occurs when platelets, which help in forming blood clots, decrease in the body, leading to symptoms, such as easy and frequent bruising, bleeding from cuts, gums, or nose, and more.
Understanding the cause of low platelets is crucial for timely and effective treatment. Therefore, in an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Sushrut Pownikar, Deputy Director, Oncquest Laboratories, shares some of the most common causes of thrombocytopenia other than dengue.
Also Read: 9 Tips To Maintain Platelet Count Amid Dengue Surge
What Are Platelets And Their Functions?
"Platelets are colourless blood cells that help in the formation of blood clots and promote faster healing of wounds as it repairs tissue damage," says Dr Pownikar. He adds that platelets, also known as thrombocytes, are produced in the bone marrow and are present in the blood and spleen.
A normal platelet count in adults ranges between 150,000-450,000 platelets/µl and a platelet count below 20,000/µl are associated with an increased risk of bleeding even without injury. A platelet count below 5,000/µl can lead to severe spontaneous bleeding, sometimes life-threatening, as per Dr Pownikar.
Thrombocytopenia refers to platelet count that falls below the normal range, which means below 150,000/µl.
Causes Of Low Platelets Other Than Dengue
A low platelet count isn't always the harbinger of dengue, says Dr Pownikar, adding that even commonplace ailments like the common cold or viral fever can send platelets plummeting.
“Viral infections, typically harmless, can likewise trigger a dip in platelet counts, highlighting the multifaceted nature of this crucial blood component's role in health," he adds.
Several medical conditions can also lead to a low platelet count. These include:
- Aplastic anaemia, a rare but serious blood condition that occurs when your bone marrow cannot make enough new blood cells
- Autoimmune diseases like Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), lupus, rheumatoid arthritis
- Cancer (especially leukaemia or lymphoma)
- Medication and substances, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, such as antibiotics, heparin, seizure medications, and even OTC pain relievers like aspirin, ibuprofen, and acetaminophen
- Pregnancy
Diagnosis And Treatment
A physical examination, symptoms assessment, and laboratory tests can diagnose thrombocytopenia. You can get a Complete Blood Count (CBC), blood smear, blood clotting assessments, and potentially bone marrow tests to identify the cause.
According to Dr Pownikar, treatment and management of thrombocytopenia usually include addressing the underlying medical condition, switching medications, using corticosteroids to suppress the immune system (in the case of ITP), blood transfusions, and splenectomy, which is spleen removal in severe cases.
It is important that people diagnosed with thrombocytopenia take safety measures to prevent injuries that may lead to bleeding or bruising.