Question

How does a deficiency in platelets cause a bleeding disorder & what are some causes of a platelets deficiency?

Answer 1

Platelets form temporary plugs that stop bleeding. They secrete procoagulants (clotting factors) that lead to the blood clotting. Some causes of a platelets deficiency are the autoimmune diseases, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis in which the body's immune system attacks and destroys platelets due to mistake. Sometimes the body uses up or destroys the platelets more rapidly than they're produced in a condition such as; bacteria in the blood, certain medications such as heparin, quinine, sulfa-containing antibiotics, and anticonvulsants, (Mayo Clinic)