The normal count of platelets in a child is around 160 to 500 x 109/L. The thrombocytopenia condition arises when the platelet count is below 100 x 109/L. The lower the platelet numbers, the higher the risk of hemorrhage and bleeding.
Level of Thrombocytopenia |
Platelet Count (x 109/L) |
Mild |
75.0-99.9 |
Moderate |
50.0-74.9 |
Moderately severe |
20.0-49.9 |
Severe |
Less than 20.0 |
A child with thrombocytopenia will show the following symptoms:
There are several reasons why a child has a low platelet count. It could be caused by infections like rubella, viral or even bacterial infections. It can also arise when the mothers' immune system generates antibodies against the platelets of the baby. Some medicines taken by the mother or the baby could also result in thrombocytopenia. Generally, the causes could include:
Production of platelets can be reduced if your bone marrow is affected things like:
There’s a condition known as idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) whereby the body targets the platelets and mistakes them as foreign cells and produces antibodies against them.
Another condition that causes thrombocytopenia is HUS or hemolytic-uremic syndrome, which occurs from a particular strain of E.coli that causes food poisoning and diarrhea in children.
The immune system of the body includes certain organs such as the spleen. This organ under specific conditions may rapture and expel platelets in excess and their circulation numbers will be less. This can take place if the spleen is enlarged by certain conditions and one of them is liver cirrhosis, which could be as a result of the hepatitis infection.
Diagnosing low platelet count or thrombocytopenia is normally done by checking platelet levels using a complete blood count (CBC) and a physical examination as well. The treatment of low blood platelets depends on what has caused it, overall health, the child’s age (gestational) and the extent of the medical history of the disease. The child’s tolerance for specific procedures, therapies or medication is also put into account.
When it comes to chemotherapy, children with thrombocytopenia either get a smaller dose or wait for long between the cycles in chemotherapy. If the platelet count is below 20 and the child experience bruising a lot or bleeding, then they may require a platelet transfusion.
Note: the child shouldn’t be given any medication without consulting the doctor.
There are tips in place alongside medical treatment that can aid the child with a low platelet count and prevent them from bleeding.
Areas of Bleeding |
What to Do and What Not to Do |
Nosebleeds |
The child should be upright siting down and the head tilted forward. Press a cold cloth on the sides of the nose and hold for 10 minutes. You can also put a cold cloth on the back of the neck. If the bleeding continues for long seek medical advice. |
Bleeds from a Cut |
Put pressure on the cut using a dry, clean cloth. If bleeding doesn’t stop, then call paramedics. Don’t apply any tourniquet to stop the bleeding for it may cause damage to the tissues permanently. |
Bleeds Under Skin |
Put pressure on the affected area using a soft cloth or an ice pack for about 10 minutes. If possible, the area should be kept above the heart level. |
Bleeds from Gums or Mouth |
If the area where bleeding is taking place is reachable, apply pressure gently until it ceases. If it’s difficult to reach then let the child hold in their mouth ice water or have them suck a Popsicle until it stops bleeding. |
Bleeds from Rectum |
Never take the child’s temperature by the rectum. Never give them medicine through the rectum like suppositories, enemas or rectal exams. Encourage taking of fluids and plenty of fiber to prevent constipation, bleeding and strains from the rectum. |
Low platelet count in children and adults may have symptoms similar to other medical problems or conditions. Nevertheless you should call a doctor if: