Thrombocytopenia

Definition

Thrombocytopenia is a condition characterized by an abnormally low number of platelets in the blood, which can impair the body's ability to form clots and stop bleeding. Platelets play a crucial role in hemostasis, and their deficiency can lead to increased bleeding and bruising.

Related terms

Hemostasis: Hemostasis is the process through which bleeding is stopped via blood vessel constriction and clot formation.

Leukocytes: Leukocytes, or white blood cells, are part of the immune system that helps defend the body against infection; unlike platelets, they are not primarily involved in clot formation but in protecting against disease.

Platelets: Platelets are small cell fragments in the blood that are essential for blood clotting, helping to prevent excessive bleeding when vessels are injured