Low platelet count, blood spots, bone marrow testing, ayurvedic treatment

Hello XXXXXXX

Thank you for your query.

First of all, regarding your platelet count, we now know through large studies that a platelet count of 10 thousand is generally adequate to prevent abnormal or spontaneous bleeding. Let me provide you some reassurance that if you are above 10,000 I am not generally concerned that bleeding will be an issue but I also want to understand more about your medical history.

I am interested to know a few more details regarding your medical history and specifically certain studies which have been performed. The information I'd like to know is as follows:

1) How long ago was the last assessment of your bone marrow?

2) Do you have any history of autoimmune problem such as lupus or rheumatism or is there any family history of this kind of thing?

3) How long has it been since you have seen a hematologist for this? How long ago was the spleen ultrasound or Xray?

4) Please tell me any medications or herbal products which you take either on a daily basis or a regular basis.

5) What lab tests have been done recently? Do you recall any special tests such as platelet antibody testing?

Thank you again for your query and I look forward to providing you with additional information, understanding and recommendations regarding your condition.

Regards,

Dr. Robert Galamaga

Hello,

Thanks for your responses to my followups.

First of all, I think we really need to understand why the platelet count is low. In this sense I was looking to see if someone has made a true diagnosis as to why the counts are depressed. Sometimes as you probably already know, the spleen can be hyperactive and can contribute to a chronic low platelet count.

There are a number of benign disorders which lead to a suppressed platelet count. I am most inclined to believe that you have what we refer to as Chronic ITP or chronic autoimmune thrombocytopenia. For this kind of thing there are a number of traditional medications which have been used including steroids like prednisone, immunoglobulins and immunosuppressants. What these medications do is basically slow down the rate at which your immune system eliminates platelets such that your counts recover to a higher range. At 10,000 you are in a range where a hematologist would consider such a treatment.

I do not know of any foods or supplements or homeopathic medications which have been proven to be very successful in this realm. If you are able, I would strongly urge you to see a hematologist for a repeat of your blood counts as well as a smear where he can look at your platelets under a microscope as well to assess their appearance. He might consider another bone marrow biopsy or perhaps a blood test to evaluate for anti-platelet antibodies but again, given your history this seems more a picture of chronic ITP.

I realize this must be stressful for you but let me reassure you that hematologists have more and more tools these days to help patients suchy as yourself maintain adequate platelet counts and lead a normal and otherwise very healthy life.

Again I appreciate your query and remain available for your followups.

Dr. Galamaga