Thrombocytopenia (low platelet count)

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Symptoms

By Mayo Clinic staff

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Photograph of petechiae on leg and abdomen 
Petechiae

Thrombocytopenia symptoms may include:

  • Easy or excessive bruising
  • Superficial bleeding into the skin that appears as a rash of pinpoint-sized reddish-purple spots (petechiae), usually on the lower legs
  • Prolonged bleeding from cuts
  • Spontaneous bleeding from your gums or nose
  • Blood in urine or stools
  • Unusually heavy menstrual flows
  • Profuse bleeding during surgery or after dental work

When to see a doctor
Make an appointment with your doctor if you have any signs or symptoms that worry you.

Bleeding that won't stop is a medical emergency. Seek immediate help if you experience bleeding that can't be controlled by usual first-aid techniques, such as applying pressure to the area.

References
  1. Landaw SA, et al. Approach to the adult patient with thrombocytopenia. http://www.uptodate.com/index. Accessed Jan. 18, 2012.
  2. George JN. Evaluation and management of thrombocytopenia by primary care physicians. http://www.uptodate.com/index. Accessed Jan. 18, 2012.
  3. Thrombocytopenia. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/thcp/thcp_all.html. Accessed Jan. 18, 2012.
DS00691 April 6, 2012

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