Platelet Disorders Treated at Karmanos

Treatment of Platelet Disorders

What are platelet disorders?

Platelet disorders are conditions that affect the number or function of platelets in the blood. In the U.S., platelet disorders are considered rare. Platelets are small fragments of blood cells that help the body form blood clots. If someone has too few, too many, or dysfunctional platelets, they may have a platelet disorder. This may result in bleeding that lasts longer than normal.

When an injury occurs, platelets become sticky and gather to form a temporary plug. Platelets can attract other clotting proteins to help create a firm clot. Problems with the number or function of platelets can interfere with this process, leading to a platelet disorder. In some cases, the exact cause may not be understood and is therefore diagnosed as an unspecified platelet disorder.

Types of platelet disorders

Bernard-Soulier Syndrome

Bernard-Soulier syndrome (BSS) is diagnosed in 1 in 1 million people. Individuals diagnosed with BSS have large platelets that lack the protein glycoprotein lb, which helps them stick together to form a clot. Symptoms can range from mild to severe.

Glanzmann’s Thrombasthenia

Glanzmann’s thrombasthenia (GT) affects 1 in 1 million people. Individuals diagnosed with GT have platelets that lack a protein (glycoprotein llb/llIa) that aids in their sticking together to create a clot. A laboratory test is used to diagnose GT.

Platelet Storage Pool Disease

Platelet storage pool disease (SPD) refers to a group of rare bleeding disorders in which platelets do not contain or release the normal amount of platelet granules required for blood clotting. Lab tests are needed to diagnose SPD.

Causes platelet disorders

Platelet disorders can be inherited or acquired later in life. They can occur when a patient produces too few or too many platelets, when platelets are being depleted faster than they can be produced, or when they have enough platelets, but they are not functioning properly.

Researchers have found many causes of platelet disorders. Thrombocytopenia is a type of condition where the body’s platelet count is too low. This condition can be caused by certain genetic mutations. Conditions, such as autoimmune diseases, liver disease, pregnancy, medications, or sepsis, can cause thrombocytopenia later in life.

At the other end is thrombocythemia, which occurs when mutations in specific genes cause the bone marrow to produce too many platelets.

Risk factors for platelet disorders

You may be at an increased risk of developing platelet disorders due to any of the following:

• Alcohol can damage the bone marrow, causing it to produce fewer platelets.
• Certain foods can raise the risk of low platelet counts.
• Certain medications, such as blood thinners, antibiotics, chemotherapy, immunosuppressant medicines, over-the-counter pain medications or certain seizure medications, can produce a platelet disorder.
• Medical conditions, such as autoimmune disorders, blood and bone marrow disease, liver disease, viral infections, and vitamin deficiencies, may contribute to a platelet disorder.
• Tobacco use can cause your body to make fewer platelets.
• You are a woman. Many platelet disorders are more common in women than in men.
• You may be at a higher risk of platelet disorder based on your age. Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) can occur at any age, but adolescents and adults are most likely to have chronic ITP. Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is most commonly diagnosed in adults aged 18 to 50.

Signs and symptoms of platelet disorders

The common signs and symptoms of platelet disorders vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. The most common symptom is bleeding more than expected. Other signs may include:

• Bleeding in the gums.
• Easy bruising.
• Frequent and prolonged nosebleeds.
• Heavy menstrual periods.
• Petachiae (small, prinprick-like bruises).
• Unusual bleeding after surgery or injury.

How are platelet disorders diagnosed?

Your health care provider may assess symptoms and discuss family history. Providers may utilize a combination of medical history, physical examination and laboratory testing. The goal is to determine whether the issue is due to too few platelets, too many platelets, or platelets that do not function properly.

Treatment options for platelet disorders

Platelet disorders are treated depending on the type. Some treatments focus on determining the underlying cause, while others focus on replenishing platelets through transfusions, which slow the breakdown of blood clots. Some cases do not require treatment.

Information about platelet disorders, causes, risk factors, diagnosis and treatment.