Gestational Thrombocytopenia

GENERAL PRINCIPLES

Definition

Gestational thrombocytopenia is a benign, mild thrombocytopenia (platelet count #8805; 70 ? 10⁹#8725;L) that occurs in the third trimester of pregnancy and usually resolve promptly after delivery.

Epidemiology

Gestational thrombocytopenia occurs in 5%-7% of otherwise uncomplicated pregnancies.²⁸

Differential Diagnosis

Other causes of thrombocytopenia during pregnancy include ITP, pre eclampsia, eclampsia, HELLP syndrome, TTP, and DIC.

Diagnostic Testing

To distinguish between gestational thrombocytopenia and other syndromes, diagnostic testing includes an evaluation for infection, hypertension and laboratory testing for hemolysis and liver dysfunction.