Thrombocytopenia: Tests
A condition in which there is a lower-than-normal number of platelets in the blood. It may result in easy bruising and excessive bleeding from wounds or bleeding in mucous membranes and other tissues.
Part of: Thrombocytopenia
Diagnosis of Thrombocytopenia
Your doctor will diagnose thrombocytopenia based on your medical history, a physical exam, and test results. A hematologist also may be involved in your care. This is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating blood diseases and conditions.
Once thrombocytopenia is diagnosed, your doctor will begin looking for its cause.
Medical History
Your doctor may ask about factors that can affect your platelets, such as:
The medicines you take, including over-the-counter medicines and herbal remedies, and whether you drink beverages that contain quinine. Quinine is a substance often found in tonic water and nutritional health products. Your general eating habits, including the amount of alcohol you normally drink. Your risk for AIDS, including questions about blood transfusions, sexual partners, intravenous (IV) drugs, and exposure to infectious blood or bodily fluids at work. Any family history…