Pediatric Thrombocytopenia

Overview

Thrombocytopenia is a condition in which the blood contains a reduced number of platelets, which are necessary for blood clotting. Pediatric hematology specialists at Mayo Clinic in Rochester provide comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for children with pediatric thrombocytopenia. Physicians and allied health staff work together to provide exceptional care for the child and support for the family.

Thrombocytopenia treatment depends upon its cause. The most common causes for thrombocytopenia in children are:

• Premature destruction of platelets
• Production of too few platelets in bone marrow
• Trapping of platelets in an enlarged spleen

The diseases and/or origins associated with these causes include:

• Aplastic anemia
• Bone marrow disorders
• Certain drugs such as sulfa-containing antibiotics
• Hemolytic uremic syndrome
• HIV infection
• Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura
• Leukemia
• Lymphoma
• Megaloblastic anemias
• Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria
• Purpura after blood transfusions
• Severe infections with blood poisoning
• Systemic lupus erythematosus
• Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura

The most common cause of low platelet counts in children is idiopathic or immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). This condition occurs when the immune system destroys platelets. It sometimes occurs in the spleen. When the underlying disease or condition is treated, thrombocytopenia may be improved or eliminated.

A pediatric hematologist will determine the proper treatment based on how long the child has had the condition, the cause of the platelet destruction, and the needs of the patient. Possible treatments include:

• Administering an antibody (WinRho) for Rh-positive patients
• Administering intravenous immunoglobulin, steroids, or chemotherapy
• Removing the spleen to stop platelet destruction
• Observing the disease for changes