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Published on: April 6, 2017
Platelet counts during normal pregnancy
Journal of Clinical Pathology
|October 1, 1975
Summary
Platelet counts in pregnant women were analyzed. Results show a significant, progressive decline in platelet levels throughout normal pregnancy, with some women experiencing counts below the typical normal range.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Obstetrics
- Reproductive Medicine
Background:
- Previous literature presents conflicting findings on platelet counts during pregnancy.
- Variations in methodology across studies may contribute to discrepancies in reported platelet trends.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and confirm the trend of platelet counts during normal pregnancy.
- To establish a reliable understanding of physiological changes in platelet levels during gestation.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 405 venous blood samples from women undergoing normal pregnancy.
- Utilized an electronic platelet counter for accurate whole blood platelet enumeration.
Main Results:
- Confirmed a significant progressive fall in platelet counts throughout normal pregnancy.
- Observed that lowest platelet counts in some individuals fell below the established normal range.
Conclusions:
- Normal pregnancy is associated with a consistent decline in platelet counts.
- The observed decrease in platelet levels during pregnancy warrants consideration in clinical practice.
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