Thrombocytopenia is a medical condition that occurs when an individual's blood platelet count is low. Platelets (also known as thrombocytes) are blood cells that have no color and that have a vital function in the clotting process. They work to prevent loss of blood by sticking together and plugging holes in blood vessels. There are several factors that help to bring on thrombocytopenia.
Common Causes
Some common causes of thrombocytopenia include the spleen containing too many platelets, the body using all the platelets or destroying them or the bone marrow producing insufficient amounts of platelets.
Cancer
Cancer is a condition that can destroy stem cells, which could lead to thrombocytopenia. Common cancers that do this include lymphoma and leukemia. They can destroy the bone marrow and blood stem cells. Treatments for cancer, like both chemotherapy and radiation, also can do this.
Chemical Exposure
Being exposed to toxic chemicals can also cause thrombocytopenia. Some chemicals that can bring on this condition include arsenic, pesticides and benzene. These toxic substances can drastically slow down platelet production.
Alcohol
Drinking too much alcohol can also cause thrombocytopenia. This is due to the fact that alcohol slows down platelet production. For people who drink heavily, brief platelet drops are extremely common. This occurs especially if the drinkers do not consume sufficient folate, vitamin B12 or iron.
Medications
Both prescription and several popular over-the-counter medications can cause thrombocytopenia. Chloramphenicol is a prescription antibiotic that can do so. Diuretics can also help bring about thrombocytopenia. Common over-the-counter medicines like ibuprofen also can have a destructive effect on blood platelets.
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