DefinitionAcquired platelet function defects are diseases or conditions that cause the blood elements needed for blood clotting (platelets) to not work properly. The term "acquired" means these diseases or conditions are not inherited, but instead develop independently in a person.
Alternative NamesAcquired qualitative platelet disorders; Acquired disorders of platelet function
Causes, incidence, and risk factorsWith platelet disorders, there may be too many or too few platelets, or platelets that do not function well. Any platelet disorder affects blood clotting.
These disorders can be caused by diseases that are present at birth (congenital), or they may develop because of another disease or condition. In many cases, the platelet count may be normal or even high, but there will be evidence of a bleeding disorder.
Disorders that can cause problems in platelet function include:
Other causes include:
SymptomsSigns and testsTreatmentTreatment is aimed at the cause of the problem.
- Bone marrow disorders (which have abnormally high numbers of platelets) are treated with platelet transfusions or by removing platelets from the blood and replacing them with donated platelets (plateletpheresis)
- Kidney failure is treated with dialysis or a drug called ddAVP
- Platelet problems caused by medication are treated by stopping the medication
Expectations (prognosis)Treating the cause of the problem usually corrects the defect.
Complications- Prolonged bleeding
- Severe anemia
Calling your health care providerCall your health care provider:
- If you have bleeding and do not know the cause
- If your symptoms get worse or do not improve after you are treated for an acquired platelet function defect
PreventionUsing medications carefully can reduce the risk of drug-related acquired platelet function defects. Treating other disorders may also reduce the risk. Some cases are not preventable.
ReferencesMcMillan R. Hemorrhagic disorders: Abnormalities of platelet and vascular function. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier;2007:chap 179.