The patient with acute thrombocytopenia

Abstract

A wide variety of conditions can present with acute thrombocytopenia, ranging from those that are relatively benign and self-limiting to those that require urgent therapeutic intervention. Initial decision-making relies on a good history and the results of some simple investigations. Although a precise diagnosis of the underlying cause might often not be possible in the acute setting, supportive treatments should be provided to all patients. This article describes a practical approach to the diagnosis and initial management of patients presenting with acute thrombocytopenia, with the aid of a case vignette.