Thrombocytopenia

Abstract

Thrombocytopenia is a commonly encountered hematologic problem in inpatient and ambulatory medicine. The many underlying mechanisms of thrombocytopenia include pseudothrombocytopenia, splenic sequestration, and marrow underproduction and destruction. This article presents the known causes of thrombocytopenia, a framework for evaluation, and brief descriptions of management in a case-based format.

Keywords: Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome; Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia; Immune thrombocytopenia; Thrombocytopenia; Thrombotic thrombocytopenia purpura.