Pediatric Thrombocytopenia

Overview

Platelets (thrombocytes) are small pieces of cells that play an important role in blood clotting by clumping and forming plugs when necessary. Thrombocytopenia (throm-boh-sigh-toe-PEE-nee-uh) is a condition in which blood has too few platelets. Causes of thrombocytopenia include increased breakdown and destruction of platelets (related to a problem with the immune system), reduced production of platelets or platelets trapped in the spleen.

Thrombocytopenia can occur as a result of a separate disorder, such as leukemia, bone marrow failure (aplastic anemia), an immune system problem or as a medication side effect. The most common reason for thrombocytopenia in children is idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). Idiopathic means unknown cause. ITP occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys platelets. Recent viral infections can lead to short-term ITP in children. If ITP in children lasts longer than six months, it is known as chronic ITP.

Why choose Mayo Clinic for pediatric thrombocytopenia

• Expertise and team approach. Your multidisciplinary team of experts may include pediatric hematologists, pediatric pathologists, pediatric infectious disease specialists, pediatric surgeons and immunologists who work together to provide accurate diagnosis and exceptional care for your child and support for your family.
• Experience. Pediatric hematology specialists at Mayo have extensive experience in diagnosing and treating both common and unusual causes of thrombocytopenia. If the thrombocytopenia is caused by a bone marrow failure syndrome such as aplastic anemia, treatment might involve a bone marrow transplant or immunosuppressive therapy by experienced Mayo Clinic specialists.
• Newest technology. Specialists at Mayo Clinic make use of the newest technology to improve chances for positive outcomes. Effective treatment of pediatric thrombocytopenia is tailored to the specific cause of the low platelets. At Mayo, complex diagnostic tools are available to identify unusual causes of low platelets.

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