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		Search Text: Platelet Disorders
Home< Back ToHealth TopicsPlatelet Disorders

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    Home< Back ToHealth TopicsPlatelet Disorders

  What Are Platelet Disorders?
                                                  
                          Symptoms
                                                  
                          Diagnosis
                                                  
                          Causes and Risk Factors
                                                  
                          Treatment
                                                  
                          Living With
                                                  
                          Pregnancy and Platelet Disorders
                                                  
                                            Types
                                                                      Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP)
                                                  
                          Thrombocythemia and Thrombocytosis
                                                  
                          Thrombocytopenia
                                                  
                          Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP)
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          Platelet Disorders
Platelet DisordersWhat Are Platelet Disorders?

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Platelet disorders are conditions that occur when the platelet count in your blood is too high or too low or your platelets do not work properly. Platelets are tiny blood cells that are made in the bone marrow from larger cells. When you are injured, platelets form a plug, called a blood clot, to seal your wound. Blood clots help stop or slow down bleeding.

There are many types of platelet disorders.

**A higher-than-normal platelet count** is called thrombocytosis or thrombocythemia. Having too many platelets can cause blood clots to form in your blood vessels. This can block blood flow through your body.
	**A lower-than-normal platelet count**is called thrombocytopenia. Some types of thrombocytopenia are immune thrombocytopenia and thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura. When you have a low platelet count, your blood does not clot normally. You may have trouble stopping bleeding.Symptoms of platelet disorders include blood clots, bleeding, and bruising. You may not have any symptoms if your platelet count is not very high or very low. Your healthcare provider will diagnose your platelet disorder based on your medical history, a physical exam, and blood tests.genes, lifestyle habits, and certain medical conditions or medicines can cause platelet disorders.

Your treatment for platelet disorders may include medicines and procedures to raise or lower your platelet count. If your condition is not serious, you may not need any treatment. Platelet disorders can cause serious bleeding, a stroke, and pregnancy complications. Your provider can help you manage your platelet disorder to lower your risk of complications.
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