What does it mean when your white blood cells and platelets are low?

Pancytopenia (Low Blood Cells) Pancytopenia is marked by low counts of all three types of blood cells—red cells, white cells and platelets. This condition can be caused by certain medications and by infections. In some cases, it is caused by a cancer or precancerous condition.

What platelet count would indicate cancer?

Background A raised platelet count (thrombocytosis) measuring >400 × 109/l is associated with high cancer incidence. It is uncertain whether platelet counts at the upper end of the normal range (high-normal: 326–400 × 109/l) are also associated with cancer.

What should a woman’s platelet count be?

What is a healthy platelet count? A normal platelet count ranges from 150,000 to 450,000 platelets per microliter of blood. Having more than 450,000 platelets is a condition called thrombocytosis; having less than 150,000 is known as thrombocytopenia.

Does platelet count change with age?

Platelet count decreases with age, and women have more platelets than man after puberty.

Do low platelets make you feel tired?

Thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) definition and facts. Symptoms and signs of thrombocytopenia may include fatigue, bleeding, and others.

Is low platelet count serious?

A low platelet count is a blood disorder that has a long list of possible causes. It is also known as thrombocytopenia. Reduced platelet content in the blood is not always a serious problem. However, the condition affects the ability of the blood to clot, and wounds can bleed severely with this condition.

What does a low white cell count mean on a CBC?

Different labs may use different reference intervals. White blood cells: White blood cells help protect individuals from infections. The above CBC report shows that the patient’s total white cell count is 1.5, which is lower than the normal range of 4.0-10.5. The low white cell count increases the risk of infection.

What is a normal platelet count?

A normal platelet count ranges from 150,000 to 350,000. It’s important to have enough platelets in your blood. If the number of platelets is too low, excessive bleeding can occur. The medical name for a low platelet count is thrombocytopenia (throm-bo-sigh-toe-PEE-nee-uh). RELATED: What Is “Blood Thinner?” What Causes a Low Platelet Count?

What blood cell growth factor is used for low platelets?

Low platelet count: The blood cell growth factor approved by the FDA for the prevention of low platelet count is called Neumega ®. Clinical studies have shown that Neumega® prevents thrombocytopenia and decreases the need for platelet transfusions in patients at high risk for developing a low platelet count.

What can cause a low platelet count?

Cancer treatments — such as chemotherapy and some radiation therapy — can slow the production of platelets in the bone marrow and temporarily cause a low platelet count.