Etymed
thrombocytopenia
Definition
A medical condition characterized by an abnormally low number of platelets (thrombocytes) in the blood, leading to impaired blood clotting ability
Clinical context
A 28-year-old woman presents with petechiae and easy bruising after starting chemotherapy for acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Laboratory studies reveal a platelet count of 25,000/μL with normal bleeding time and coagulation studies. She requires platelet transfusion before any surgical procedures.
Mnemonic
Tired of Platelets - Thrombocytopenia Causes Bleeding Problems