Platelets are cell fragments that allow the blood to clot. A decrease in their number is called thrombocytopenia, and it shows up as easy bruising of the skin and pinpoint bleeding.

Symptoms

  • Numerous bruises (ecchymoses) even from minor knocks
  • Pinpoint, red-purple spots the size of a needle tip on the skin (petechiae) — especially on the legs
  • Nosebleeds and gum bleeding
  • Prolonged menstrual bleeding (in adolescent girls)

The Most Common Cause: ITP (Immune Thrombocytopenia)

In an otherwise healthy child, bruises and petechiae that appear suddenly — usually 1–3 weeks after a viral infection — point to ITP. The immune system mistakenly destroys the platelets. Although it looks frightening, the large majority of childhood ITP resolves on its own and completely.

Other Causes

Medications, certain infections, and, more rarely, serious blood disorders involving the bone marrow. For this reason, every child who presents with bruising is evaluated with a complete blood count and, if needed, a peripheral blood smear; a pale appearance, fever, bone pain, or enlarged lymph nodes call for further investigation.

What Families Should Watch For

Protecting a child with a low platelet count from injury is important: contact sports and activities that carry a risk of head trauma are restricted. Medications that increase bleeding risk, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, are avoided; for fever and pain, consult your doctor. In the case of active bleeding, a severe headache, or head trauma, you should go to the emergency department.

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Related articles: Childhood blood disorders · Iron deficiency

This article is for general information purposes only; it does not replace diagnosis and treatment. For any concerns about your child's health, always consult a specialist in pediatric health and diseases.

Uzm. Dr. Hasan Keleş — Specialist in Pediatric Health and Diseases, Gaziantep