Hi all,
I posted a few days ago about my fairly low platelet counts (137)
that were discovered in a routine health screening I recently had.
I was concerned, so I did go to see another doctor. He diagnosed me
as having thrombocytopenia, so I'm trying to find out more
information. Apparently I'm supposed to have another platelet
screening next month, just to monitor things, because the counts
aren't so low enough as to cause immediate concern yet. So…can
anyone give me some information? I have some questions:
-What exactly is thrombocytopenia? Is it different from thrombotic
thrombocytopenic purpura?
-Is it a `permanent' condition/disease/disorder?
-How does one acquire it?
-Are there any side effects or symptoms I should look for?
-What are the long term consequences or health effects of having
this?
-Is it possible to just monitor the counts and not need treatment?
-What type of treatment is available, and at what point would one
need to be treated? i.e., could I just go on with a semi-low count
forever and be ok?

You all seem so nice and supportive. I would appreciate any advice
or basic information I can start with.
Thanks in advance,
Sara