Best Thrombocytopenia Doctors in Chennai

Types of Thrombocytopenia

Thrombocytopenia can be classified into two main types:

• Primary (or Immune) Thrombocytopenia: This is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks its platelets.

• Secondary Thrombocytopenia: This type is caused by another condition such as an infection, cancer, or medication.

Symptoms of Thrombocytopenia

Individuals suffering from thrombocytopenia may experience:

• Easy bruising

• Frequent or prolonged nosebleeds

• Bleeding gums

• Tiny red or purple spots on the skin

• Heavy or prolonged menstrual periods

• Gastrointestinal bleeding

Tests to Diagnose Thrombocytopenia

To diagnose this condition, doctors treating thrombocytopenia and blood disorders may recommend:

1. Complete Blood Count (CBC): This test measures the levels of platelets, red blood cells, and white blood cells in the blood and helps identify low platelet counts indicative of thrombocytopenia.

2. Peripheral Blood Smear: A blood sample is examined under a microscope to assess the size, shape, and number of platelets, helping to identify abnormalities.

3. Bone Marrow Biopsy: This procedure involves extracting a small sample of bone marrow tissue to determine if the marrow produces an adequate number of platelets, and identifying potential causes like bone marrow disorders.

4. Platelet Antibody Test: This test checks for antibodies that may be attacking platelets, which can help diagnose immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) or other autoimmune conditions affecting platelet counts.

5. Coagulation Tests: Tests such as Prothrombin Time (PT) and Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT) evaluate the blood’s ability to clot and can help identify underlying disorders that may be contributing to low platelet levels.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Thrombocytopenia at Apollo Hospitals Chennai

The treatment approach for thrombocytopenia often depends on its cause and severity. At Apollo Hospitals Chennai, the doctors for thrombocytopenia treatment may suggest:

• Medications: Drugs such as corticosteroids or thrombopoietin receptor agonists are used to increase platelet production.

• Immunosuppressants: These are drugs that are used to decrease platelet destruction. Immunosuppressants might be prescribed in some cases.

• Platelet Transfusions: In severe cases of bleeding, this may be recommended by doctors for treating thrombocytopenia.

• Splenectomy: Surgical removal of the spleen may be performed in some severe or refractory cases of spleen enlargement.