What causes low platelet count after a week of fever?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am 57 years old. I have had a persistent low-grade fever for a week. At the end of the week, I did not have a fever. We did a blood test, and it showed me a low platelet count of 127 thousand/microliter. Six months ago, I did a blood test, and it showed me a platelet count of 166 thousand/microliter.

During my fever, I did not have any other symptoms, such as cough, throat pain, runny nose, or breathing problems. I am worried about my abnormal platelet count.

Please help.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

It is good to hear that your fever has subsided. Low platelet count is referred to as thrombocytopenia. Your count is 127,000/mm³, and it falls under the mild range (normal range: 100,000/mm³ to 150,000/mm³). It can occur due to multiple reasons. It can occur due to laboratory error or pseudo-thrombocytopenia due to the usage of EDTA (ethylenediaminetetracetic acid) anticoagulant.

Low platelet count is considered to be a serious issue when it occurs in association with bleeding symptoms like bruising, petechial rash, and gum bleeding. You do not have any of these symptoms. You can recheck your platelet count after a few days. I can assure you that your current health status is safe and good.

I hope this helps.