Platelet Disorders
The pathogenesis of suboptimal platelet function is multifactorial. Platelets do not function well if there are too many or too few platelets; also the platelets can be present in the appropriate quantity but be dysfunctional due to abnormal shape or size. This article will give a brief overview of normal platelet physiology and megakaryocytopoiesis and then discuss platelet dysfunction in the neonatal population. Knowledge regarding the varied causes of platelet dysfunction will lead to expedient identification and appropriate treatment for affected infants.
The abnormalities of platelets are either one of two types: qualitative problems (the expected numbers of platelets are present, but they do not function appropriately) or quantitative problems (there are either too many or too few platelets). This article will begin with a review of normal platelet physiology and megakaryocytopoiesis and then discuss in detail the various quantitative and qualitative platelet abnormalities seen in the neonatal population.
The pathogenesis of suboptimal platelet function is multifactorial. Platelets do not function well if there are too many or too few platelets; also the platelets can be present in the appropriate quantity but be dysfunctional due to abnormal shape or size. This article will give a brief overview of normal platelet physiology and megakaryocytopoiesis and then discuss platelet dysfunction in the neonatal population. Knowledge regarding the varied causes of platelet dysfunction will lead to expedient identification and appropriate treatment for affected infants.
The abnormalities of platelets are either one of two types: qualitative problems (the expected numbers of platelets are present, but they do not function appropriately) or quantitative problems (there are either too many or too few platelets). This article will begin with a review of normal platelet physiology and megakaryocytopoiesis and then discuss in detail the various quantitative and qualitative platelet abnormalities seen in the neonatal population.