My COVID recovered uncle's platelet count is reducing even with apheresis. Why?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your query, and I can understand your concern. As mentioned in the query, after COVID, there has been a drop in platelet count.

The reason for this could be:

1) ITP (idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura) is due to immune-mediated destruction of the platelet. It can get precipitated after a viral infection. Need treatment with steroids or IVIg (Intravenous immunoglobulin).

2) Drug-induced, many drugs on themselves can cause low platelets. Can recover after stopping offending drug.

3) Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) develop as a reaction to heparin commonly used in the treatment of COVID. Need to be managed with a change in anticoagulant.

In your uncle's case, I would need more information like his platelet count before COVID. Are there any signs of bleeding? What medications is he taking? What are his other blood reports?

Meanwhile, his platelet count should be above 15,000. And if there is any bleeding, it should be kept above 30000 atleast as there is a risk of bleeding in internal organs, which can be dangerous. Please answer the questions so that I can guide you accordingly.