What causes low platelet count?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have had blood tests done. In the past, I have had clumping platelets, then low, sitting at 135, then 114. Now, the last two are at 103. Is that bad?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

The platelet clumps sometimes can give a falsely low count of platelets if CBC is done in an automated cell counter only. So in such a case, you need to investigate with platelet count by the manual method as well, after peripheral smear preparation. So I suggest you investigate further with the peripheral smear examination report. You can revert back once the peripheral smear examination report is done.

The viral infection, malaria, hemolytic anemia, dengue, and ITP are some of the causes. So kindly mention how long you have had persistent low platelets, and at which time these three CBCs were done (attachment removed to protect patient identity)?

I hope this helps.

Kindly revert so I can assist you further.

Thank you.