Q. Why is platelet not a true cell?
Platelet Structure and Distribution Platelets are not true cells, but are instead classified as cell fragments produced by megakaryocytes. Because they lack a nucleus, they do not contain nuclear DNA. Less than 1% of whole blood consists of platelets. They are about 1/10th to 1/20th as abundant as white blood cells.
Q. What type of cells are platelets?
Platelets, or thrombocytes, are small, colorless cell fragments in our blood that form clots and stop or prevent bleeding. Platelets are made in our bone marrow, the sponge-like tissue inside our bones. Bone marrow contains stem cells that develop into red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
Q. Are platelets a cell?
Platelets are non-nucleated cell elements that, clearly, result from fractionation of bone marrow megakaryocytes (MKs). During differentiation, MKs are exposed to constantly increasing pH and pO2 until reaching the sinuses, where platelets are released from proplatelets supported by shear from the blood flow.
Q. What would make your platelets drop?
Factors that can decrease platelet production include: Leukemia and other cancers. Some types of anemia. Viral infections, such as hepatitis C or HIV.
Q. What medications can cause low platelets?
Heparin, a blood thinner, is the most common cause of drug-induced immune thrombocytopenia….Other medicines that cause drug-induced thrombocytopenia include:
- Furosemide.
- Gold, used to treat arthritis.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Penicillin.
- Quinidine.
- Quinine.
- Ranitidine.
- Sulfonamides.
Q. What are the complications of thrombocytopenia?
Complications of thrombocytopenia include:
- Adverse effects of treatment.
- Anemia.
- Excessive or uncontrollable bleeding.
- Gastrointestinal bleeding.
- Intracerebral hemorrhage (bleeding in the brain)
- Severe nosebleeds.
