Thrombocytopenia, or low platelet count, is a condition in which the platelet count in the blood is too low. Platelets are tiny blood cells that help blood clot, and a reduced platelet count in the blood can result in bleeding problems. There are many factors that can cause low platelet counts, including:

• Decreased production of platelets: This can be caused by leukemia and other cancers, some types of anemia, viral infections such as hepatitis C or HIV, chemotherapy drugs and radiation therapy, and heavy alcohol consumption.

• Increased breakdown of platelets: Some conditions can cause the body to use up or destroy platelets faster than theyre produced, leading to a shortage of platelets in the bloodstream. Examples of such conditions include pregnancy, severe bacterial infections involving the blood (bacteremia), thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, and hemolytic uremic syndrome.

• Medications: Certain medications can reduce the number of platelets in the blood. Sometimes a drug confuses the immune system and causes it to destroy platelets. Examples include heparin, quinine, sulfa-containing antibiotics, and anticonvulsants.

• Autoimmune diseases: Autoimmune diseases, like immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis, can cause thrombocytopenia.

• Infections: Bacterial and viral infections may lower platelet levels.

• Alcohol use disorder: Drinking a lot of alcohol may cause platelet levels to drop.

• Exposure to certain substances: Substances that can lower platelet counts include some medications, poisonous substances, alcohol, and quinine.

It is important to understand why a person has low platelet levels, as thrombocytopenia may increase the risk of issues like excessive bleeding and bruising. Severe thrombocytopenia increases the risk of internal bleeding or heart attack. Treatment options depend on the cause and severity of the thrombocytopenia and may include watching and waiting, treating the underlying cause, or medications such as steroids to boost platelet production.