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Thrombocytopenia in Children

Thrombocytopenia in childhood manifests with increased bleeding tendency, easy bruising and prolonged bleeding from minor injuries.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Thrombocytopenia in Children?

Thrombocytopenia is defined as a platelet count below 150,000/μL. The most common cause in children is immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), which usually develops 1–3 weeks after a viral infection.

Bone marrow failure (aplastic anaemia, leukaemia), platelet destruction (TTP, HUS, DIC) and inherited disorders (Wiskott-Aldrich, Bernard-Soulier) are other causes.

Most cases of childhood ITP resolve spontaneously within 6 months. Treatment is reserved for active bleeding or platelets <20,000/μL.

Symptoms

Petechiae (pinpoint red spots on the skin)
Ecchymosis and easy bruising
Recurrent epistaxis
Prolonged gum bleeding
Heavy menstrual bleeding (in adolescent girls)
Blood in the urine or stool
Headache (concerning for intracranial bleeding)

Risk Factors

Recent viral infection (varicella, EBV, COVID)
Recent vaccination (especially MMR)
Use of certain medications (heparin, valproate)
Family history (inherited platelet disorders)
Autoimmune disease (SLE, ALPS)
Bone marrow disease (leukaemia, aplastic anaemia)
Premature birth and low birth weight

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Apply to the emergency department immediately for sudden petechial rash on the skin
  • Headache, vomiting and altered consciousness require urgent investigation for intracranial bleeding
  • Persistent epistaxis or gum bleeding warrants paediatric haematology consultation
  • Routine paediatric examination is needed for unexplained bruising

Treatment Methods

01
Observation and avoidance of trauma (most ITP cases)
02
Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) (acute, severe form)
03
Corticosteroid (oral prednisolone or methylprednisolone)
04
Anti-D immunoglobulin (Rh-positive children)
05
Thrombopoietin receptor agonists (eltrombopag) for chronic refractory ITP
06
Splenectomy (last resort, rarely required in children)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.