Thrombocytopenia: Low Platelets and High Protein Posted: 02-03-06 12:48pm
i would like to know why platelets are
usually low, and why protein is high.
what could the outcome be with these
symptoms,also with the pain around my left
ribs and swelling.
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DoctorAnswer
Doctor Answer
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Inflammatory and Abnormal Cell Disorders Answer A369 Posted: 02-21-06 06:36am
Platelets can be low (thrombocytopenia)
either because of their low production in
the bone marrow or because of their faster
destruction in the spleen. The major task
of the spleen is to destroy old
erythrocytes and thrombocytes (platelets).
In some autoimmune diseases the immune
system is producing antibodies against
these platelets. Those antibodies bind to
the platelets’ surface. Platelets with
bound antibodies on their surface can be
destroyed more easily in the spleen. In
such conditions the spleen becomes bigger
and more active (hyperspleenism). The pain
and swelling you are experiencing on the
left side could be caused by this
condition. An abdominal ultrasound
examination is performed to confirm
eventual spleen enlargement. RE: “high
protein count”...I need to know WHICH
blood protein fraction (alpha, beta, and
gamma) is high. Gamma-fraction is
increased in autoimmune thrombocytopenic
disorders. You will need an expert
examination and treatment by a
hematologist.
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