Thrombocytopenia vs polycythemia

p As central hematocrit increases , blood viscosity rises and so does the oxygen content . It is possible to identify slowed flow of blood in some organs thus affecting oxygenation and subsequent transport function of blood

Diagnosis

A hematocrit test is recommended especially at two hours age with values less than sixty five percent at this age being deemed as normal Capillary and venous hematocrits are useful tests although venous hematocrit is the best confirmatory test

Medical treatment

Fluid intake is a recommended treatment for polycythemia (especially neonatal . A conservative

management approach requires hydration and is utilized when the hematocrit is 70-75 percent . Partial exchange transfusion (using crystalloids or colloids ) helps in reducing the hematocrit level (AIIMS-NICU Protocols , 2007

Summary

Thrombocytopenia

Low platelet count usually below 150 ,000 platelets per micro liter There is abnormal bleeding and bruising and petechiae are observed Bleeding time increases as platelet count decreases . Insufficient production of platelets and high rate of platelet breakdown results into thrombocytopenia . Increase in bleeding time means that the hemostasis process is impaired and the hemostatic plug takes time to form . Bleeding may involve the GIT and the brain . Other than observed abnormal bleeding and bruising , a complete blood count is done to measure the number of platelets . Drugs that suppress the immune system can be used to treat autoimmune-caused thrombocytopenia . Plasma exchange can also be done

Polycythemia

This is an increase in erythrocytes among other blood cells . The hematocrit level increases beyond 65 percent and blood viscosity is increased tremendously . Facial pain , malaise , pruritis , weight loss splenomegaly and erythromelalgia are among the main signs and symptoms of polycythemia . Mutations in JAK2 and EPOR gene are the main causes Increased viscosity affects oxygenation and blood transport function . A hematocrit test is the recommended test for polycythemia . Hydration via a conservative approach or...