Approach to Thrombocytopenia (Pediatric Patients)

Thrombocytopenia is defined as a platelet count less than 150 × 109/l and is one of the most common findings encountered in Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). It is classified into increased destruction or increased consumption, sequestration, or decreased production depending on the mechanism of thrombocytopenia. The evaluation starts with details of presenting illness, past, family, and drug history followed by a thorough physical examination. Understanding the mechanism is the crux of diagnosing the etiology of thrombocytopenia and managing it accordingly. Management includes platelet transfusion to prevent or treat clinical bleeding and targeted treatment to address the underlying disorder. This chapter provides an analysis of thrombocytopenia in the PICU setting along with highlighting significant diagnostic and management considerations for some of the most common etiologies.