Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 5, 2026

Megakaryocyte Differentiation and Platelet Formation from Human Cord Blood-derived CD34+ Cells
Published on: December 27, 2017
Thrombocytopenia
Edythe M Lyn Greenberg1, Elizabeth S Sue Kaled
1Department of Leukemia, MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
Thrombocytopenia is defined as a platelet count less than 150,000/μL. It can be the result of decreased platelet production, sequestration of the platelets, or increased destruction of the platelets. The clinical presentation may vary from an incidental finding to obvious bleeding. Causes of thrombocytopenia include infections, malignancy, liver disease, autoimmune disorders, disseminated intravascular coagulation, pregnancy, medications, and coagulation disorders. Treatment is determined by the underlying cause of the thrombocytopenia. This article discusses the evaluation and management of common causes of thrombocytopenia.
Thrombocytopenia is defined as a platelet count less than 150,000/μL. It can be the result of decreased platelet production, sequestration of the platelets, or increased destruction of the platelets. The clinical presentation may vary from an incidental finding to obvious bleeding. Causes of thrombocytopenia include infections, malignancy, liver disease, autoimmune disorders, disseminated intravascular coagulation, pregnancy, medications, and coagulation disorders. Treatment is determined by the underlying cause of the thrombocytopenia. This article discusses the evaluation and management of common causes of thrombocytopenia.
Related Concept Videos
Disorders of Hemostasis
Thromboembolic Disorders
Two factors primarily cause thromboembolic conditions.
Anticoagulant Drugs: Low-Molecular-Weight Heparins
Structure and Function of Platelets
Platelets are continually replenished, circulating in the bloodstream for 9-12 days before being removed by phagocytes, primarily in the spleen. A microliter of circulating blood contains between 150,000 and 450,000...
Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care
Venous Thrombosis I: Introduction
Venous Thrombosis IV: Nursing Management

