Thrombocytopenia in Pregnancy; A Pakistani Perspective

Abstract

Abstract: Thrombocytopenia in pregnancy is mostly taken as platelets less than normal lower limit. The normal limit of platelets in pregnancy is 106-120x109/l [1]. Thromocytopenia is the second important cause of haematologic disorders in pregnancy, first being anemia [1-3].Gestational thrombocytopenia is responsible for approximately 75% of all cases of thrombocytopenia seen mostly in pregnancy. Another important aspect is hypertension in pregnancy. It can result in thrombocytopenia as well. These disorders constitute about 20% and immune thrombocytopenia accounts for about 4% [4, 5]. Other causes of thrombocytopenia are quite uncommon in pregnancy. The aim of this review is to highlight different aspects of thrombocytopenia seen commonly in pregnancy, their impact on decisions made by physicians and obstetricians as well as causes of thrombocytopenia encountered in pregnant females in Pakistan and challenges faced by obstetricians and haematologists.