A Case of Thrombocytopenia

Case Presentation


Carolyn Jones is a 40-year-old professor of economics at a small
private college in the Midwest. During the past week, Carolyn has felt
fatigued and has experienced periods of general weakness. In the past
day or so, she has noticed the appearance of small, red dots on her skin
and gums, and when she cut herself preparing dinner, the wound bled for
what seemed to be a prolonged period of time.

When examined by her physician, Carolyn’s platelet count is found to
be very low and her blood clotting profile indicates a prolonged
clotting time. Carolyn does not have a history of taking any
medications, nor does she have a recent history of viral infection. Her
physician suspects that Carolyn has Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura
(ITP) and prescribes the appropriate course of therapy.


Questions

1. How and where are platelets produced in the body?
   
2. Describe the role played by platelets in hemostasis.
   
3. Define thrombocytopenia and list the more common causes of this
   condition.
   
4. What are the potential consequences of a low platelet count?
   
5. What drugs have been associated with the development of
   thrombocytopenia?
   
6. How is thrombocytopenia treated in individuals diagnosed with the
   condition?
   
7. How might removal of the spleen (splenectomy) result in an increase
   in the number of circulating platelets?
   
8. What is Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP)?
   

Chose a question and answer.

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