I have rashes, bruises on my legs and my platelet count is 169k. Is it idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have an appointment for the COVID vaccine on Saturday. I have not been diagnosed with ITP, but I think I could be close. Blood platelet count is 169k, with extremely easy bruising (photos and recent CBC results attached). I am a 73-year-old male. My height is 6 feet, and my weight is 180 lbs. I am a competitive singles tennis player, otherwise very reclusive. I have read about the increasing issues with regard to the COVID vaccines and blood platelet problems, so I am on the fence about getting the vaccine, considering my personal risk or reward situation. I should mention that I use many OTC supplements with "blood-thinning" side effects along with Kratom, which has anti-inflammatory effects and, based on amounts used at various time intervals, seems to impact the extent of my bruising.

Kindly guide.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thanks for the query.

I can understand your concern. According to your statement, you have been suffering from rashes, purpura, or bruises on your legs. According to the investigation report (attachments removed to protect the patient's identity), your platelet counts are within the normal range. ITP or idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura is an immune disorder in which there is difficulty in clotting. In ITP, platelet counts are usually low, but your platelet count is within normal. The causes of purpura or bruises other than ITP are age, such as senile purpura, prolonged sun exposure, vitamin deficiency, medications, etc. You are currently using medication that may cause such types of clinical features. ITP usually occurs in young children within 2 to 6 years. At your age, there are the least chances of developing ITP, only if you had a history of ITP in your childhood. And the COVID vaccine may cause clotting disorders or something like that, but the chances of developing such side effects or complications are very rare or negligible. It is not necessary to happen in your case. So, you should take the COVID-19 vaccination without any tension because every medication has its side effects. And every person will get the side effects of any medicine, but it is not like that.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.