I want to start off by talking about the (probably) the most common test ordered by any clinician:
The Complete Blood Count (CBC).
Over the next few posts, I will simplify what each component of the CBC means, what we look for and what yours might be telling you.
Let’s talk about the third type of blood cell- platelets
Platelets are cell fragments. They originate from megakaryocytes (papa platelets) in the bone marrow. Each megakaryocyte produces thousands of platelets.
Credit: Nature.com
HSC: hematopoietic stem cell
What do platelets do?
Their primary job is to participate in the clotting mechanism. Anytime there is a break in the skin (think, cut, laceration, burn, injury), the platelets are the first responders. They go to that site and arrange themselves in a layer that provides a bed for more platelets and clotting factors (proteins that help in clotting) to attach and form a strong clot to stop bleeding!
The CBC may sometimes show high of low platelets and here are some conditions/causes for the same
High Platelets | Low platelets |
|---|---|
Infection | Sepsis/infection |
Iron deficiency | Vitamin deficiencies- B12/folate/copper |
Bone marrow disorders | Chronic viral infections |
Liver disease | |
Medications | |
Autoimmune diseases | |
Blood cancers - yes they can present as LOW blood counts! |
Did you find this useful? What other topic would you like me to simplify in this newsletter?
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Disclaimer: The content in this newsletter is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Subscription to this newsletter does not establish a doctor-patient relationship. Always consult your physician with specific questions regarding your health