Blood infection is also known as sepsis. Sepsis is characterized by the severe infection of blood, due to the presence of infectious agents and toxins. Sepsis can be caused by microorganisms like bacteria, fungi or virus. These microorganisms can cause infection in any part of the body and can eventually spread to the blood stream, especially if the immune system is not strong enough to prevent their invasion.
However, the immune system does try to prevent the infection of the bloodstream, but in the process small blood clots are formed in the blood vessels. This impairs normal blood flow and the supply of oxygenated blood to the tissues and organs. When tissues and organs do not receive sufficient oxygen, they fail to perform their normal activities. This ultimately leads to the medical condition, called shock. Shock is characterized by the lack of oxygen and nutrients in the tissues, which can lead to organ failure and death of the individual, if not treated on time.
What Causes Blood Infection
Though, blood infections are most commonly caused by bacteria, other microbes like fungi or virus can also be responsible for this condition. One of the most common bacteria that causes sepsis, is E.Coli, which is normally found in the digestive tract. But more poisonous strains of this bacteria can enter our body through the consumption of contaminated foods. They first enter the digestive system and then pervade the bloodstream. Similarly, viral and fungal infections can also cause sepsis. The population of fungi in our body is kept under control by a healthy immune system. But, a weakened immune system fails to control their population, and as a result, the fungi spread throughout the body and gradually make their way to the bloodstream.
Any condition or disease that can weaken the immune system can increase the risk of developing sepsis or infection in the blood. When the immune system is not strong, infection in any part of the body like lungs, skin, abdomen or kidneys can lead to sepsis. People with diabetes, pneumonia, HIV/AIDS, cellulitis and urinary tract infection are more prone to develop sepsis. Chemotherapy and certain medications that are given to the cancer and organ transplant patients, can also increase the risk of blood infections. Even the elderly individuals, along with the young children, fall under the risk zone for sepsis. Here's more on blood infection causes.
Blood Infection Symptoms
Fever is one of the most common symptoms of blood infections. Fever is usually accompanied by chills and shivering. Apart from these, the heart rate increases in the patients and they may experience disorientation, confusion as well as dizziness. The patient may also develop skin rashes, as small small, dark red spots spreading throughout the body. Along with these symptoms, low blood pressure and joint pain, especially in the back, hips, knees and ankles have been observed in the patients of sepsis.
Diagnosis and Treatment for Blood Infections
Blood infections is generally diagnosed with the help of a blood test and blood culture. Sputum, urine, abscess and spinal fluid are also tested to look for the infectious agents. Chest X-ray, CT scan, etc. are carried out to find out infections in other organs. Generally, antibiotics are prescribed to destroy the infectious bacteria causing sepsis. In the meantime, the patient may be required to be put on oxygen support and admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). If the blood pressure of the patient falls to a very low level, saline can be administered. In recent times, inappropriate uses of antibiotics have made many virus strains resistant to these medications, which is posing a great challenge to the treatment of sepsis.
The effectiveness of the treatments for blood infections depends on a number of factors, including the age of the individual as well as the underlying conditions. If the person is already struggling with a serious disease then the chances of recovery become less. But healthy individuals with no major disease or condition can recover easily, if treated on time. Therefore, timely diagnosis plays an important role in the treatment of blood infections.
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Blood Clot in Leg
Blood clots in leg causes pain and swelling of the leg. But, blood clot symptoms usually go unnoticed till they assume gigantic proportions.
Facts About Blood Clot in the Leg
A blood clot is formed as a defense mechanism in the body, when there is a damage to the blood vessel. The clot is formed so that the damaged area can be sealed with the clot, thus preventing the flow of blood. When this clot moves away from the damaged area, it becomes dangerous to the vital organs. If a blood clot moves to the heart or to the brain, it can cause heart attacks, strokes, etc. Sometimes blindness is also associated by these clots, as they block the supply of blood to the eyes. The clots formed in the thighs have a tendency to break away and move to the other parts of the body than the clots formed in the calf.
A clot is normally formed among the deep veins in the leg around the calf area or the pelvis. The clot has the capacity of spreading to other parts of the body. In rare conditions, a clot can form in the thighs or arms as well. The innermost veins are covered by a layer of muscle. These veins are located at the center of the leg. Deep vein thrombosis is at times confused with blood clotting that is noticed on the superficial veins located on the topmost layer of the skin. However, the clotting of blood in the superficial veins is not as dangerous as deep vein blood clotting.
Blood Clot in Leg Symptoms
Most of the times, the small clots do not produce any kind of symptoms. Over a period of time, the body defense mechanism is able to breakdown these clots without leaving any long-term effects.
The large clots are the dangerous clots, as they partially or completely block the supply of blood. The symptoms of the large clots are enumerated here:
There is a noticeable change in the skin color. Usually the skin color changes to red.
Swelling of the affected leg is the most common symptom of blood clot in the leg.
It becomes difficult to stand erect or put weight on the affected area due to pain and tenderness. This condition restricts one's daily movements as well.
Another symptom of blood clot in the leg is that, the skin feels either hot or warm when touched.
Tightness or pain in the thighs can also be caused by blood clots. The pain is usually noticed while walking.
At times, the veins on the surface of the skin are widened due to the clots.
Causes of Blood Clot in Leg
Blood clots in the leg are most commonly caused due to sitting for long periods at a stretch. Dick Cheney, the former Vice-President of the United States of America, suffered from deep vein thrombosis due to extensive air travel during his visit to Afghanistan, Pakistan and Australia. Sitting on long haul flights was said to be the reason for the blood clot. Similarly, sitting for long periods during car travel can also lead to the formation of a blood clot.
Prolonged illness resulting in bed rest or immobility due to injury can also lead to the formation of a blood clot. Trauma to the lower body can also be responsible for clot formation. Blood clots after surgery, such as orthopedic, gynecologic, etc. are also common.
Obesity is said to be one of the triggering factors for the formation of a clot. Blood clots can also be formed due to a person's advanced age. Climbing high altitudes, use of birth control pills, cancer, etc. are some of the other causes of blood clots in the leg.
There are number of reasons for the formation of a blood clot in leg. It is important not to neglect any of the symptoms as the clots can be fatal.
Facts About Blood Clot in the Leg
A blood clot is formed as a defense mechanism in the body, when there is a damage to the blood vessel. The clot is formed so that the damaged area can be sealed with the clot, thus preventing the flow of blood. When this clot moves away from the damaged area, it becomes dangerous to the vital organs. If a blood clot moves to the heart or to the brain, it can cause heart attacks, strokes, etc. Sometimes blindness is also associated by these clots, as they block the supply of blood to the eyes. The clots formed in the thighs have a tendency to break away and move to the other parts of the body than the clots formed in the calf.
A clot is normally formed among the deep veins in the leg around the calf area or the pelvis. The clot has the capacity of spreading to other parts of the body. In rare conditions, a clot can form in the thighs or arms as well. The innermost veins are covered by a layer of muscle. These veins are located at the center of the leg. Deep vein thrombosis is at times confused with blood clotting that is noticed on the superficial veins located on the topmost layer of the skin. However, the clotting of blood in the superficial veins is not as dangerous as deep vein blood clotting.
Blood Clot in Leg Symptoms
Most of the times, the small clots do not produce any kind of symptoms. Over a period of time, the body defense mechanism is able to breakdown these clots without leaving any long-term effects.
The large clots are the dangerous clots, as they partially or completely block the supply of blood. The symptoms of the large clots are enumerated here:
There is a noticeable change in the skin color. Usually the skin color changes to red.
Swelling of the affected leg is the most common symptom of blood clot in the leg.
It becomes difficult to stand erect or put weight on the affected area due to pain and tenderness. This condition restricts one's daily movements as well.
Another symptom of blood clot in the leg is that, the skin feels either hot or warm when touched.
Tightness or pain in the thighs can also be caused by blood clots. The pain is usually noticed while walking.
At times, the veins on the surface of the skin are widened due to the clots.
Causes of Blood Clot in Leg
Blood clots in the leg are most commonly caused due to sitting for long periods at a stretch. Dick Cheney, the former Vice-President of the United States of America, suffered from deep vein thrombosis due to extensive air travel during his visit to Afghanistan, Pakistan and Australia. Sitting on long haul flights was said to be the reason for the blood clot. Similarly, sitting for long periods during car travel can also lead to the formation of a blood clot.
Prolonged illness resulting in bed rest or immobility due to injury can also lead to the formation of a blood clot. Trauma to the lower body can also be responsible for clot formation. Blood clots after surgery, such as orthopedic, gynecologic, etc. are also common.
Obesity is said to be one of the triggering factors for the formation of a clot. Blood clots can also be formed due to a person's advanced age. Climbing high altitudes, use of birth control pills, cancer, etc. are some of the other causes of blood clots in the leg.
There are number of reasons for the formation of a blood clot in leg. It is important not to neglect any of the symptoms as the clots can be fatal.
Sickle Cell Disease
Sickle Cell Disease - Its Pathophysiology and Clinical Signs
Sickle cell disease is inheritable through the genes of parents who are either sicklers or carriers of the sickle cell trait genes
The normal RBC has HbA, is biconcave, non-nucleated and has a life span of 120 days. The RBC with haemoglobin S is less soluble and has a life span of about 26-35 days. Reduced oxygen tension coupled with low PH brings about distortion within the cell making them crescent shaped.
There is rapid destruction of the sickle cells leading to a thicker, heavier and sticky blood. The thickened blood is stagnated within the vessels leading to tissue hypoxia. The excess fragments resulting from excessive haemolysis become difficult for the liver and the spleen to cope with thereby resulting in overwork, hepatomegaly and splenomegaly.
The sluggish, crescent-shaped red blood cells occlude the blood vessels causing thrombosis/infarcts in organs e.g. in the lower limbs, joints, lungs, brain, kidneys and mesentery. The infarction/hypoxia cause bones/joints pain. There is chest pain due to lung infarction; dehydration due to renal concentration defects as a result of kidney infarction.
There is fatigue as a result of reduced blood and energy supply leading to decreased metabolism and further worsening in energy supply. Pyrexia is usually due to tissue hypoxia and necrosis leading to inflammatory reaction. There are signs and symptoms of nervous disturbance due to infarction and in severe cases stroke may arise.
The rapid haemolysis of the RBC and haemoglobin results in anaemia. Anaemia is then accompanied by angina pectoris, cardiomegaly, tachycardia and heart failure.
The Haem portion of the haemolysed Haemoglobin is broken down to amino acid, and Iron or ferritin (stored in the liver). The portion which contains bilirubin and biliverdin remains in circulation resulting in jaundice.
In childhood, the bone marrow attempts to compensate for the excessive RBC destruction, leading to the enlargement of the bones of the face and skull. This brings about the development of a high cheek bone and prominent forehead.
Over activity of the bone marrow brings about rapid proliferation of the white blood cells (WBC) which subsequently leads to increased susceptibility to infection. Patient may develop gallstones as a result of infection. Sometimes leg ulcers are present.
Clinical signs and symptoms
1. Joint pains
2. Fever
3. NDehydration
4. Chronic anaemia leading to tachycardia, cardiomegaly and heart failure.
5. Splenomegaly
6. Hepatomegaly
7. Reduced haemoglobin level
8. Kidney failure
9. Chronic ulcer above the ankle
10. Haematuria (blood in urine)
11. Susceptibility to infection
12. Priapism (persistent erection of the penis)
13. Paralysis due to cerebral hypoxia which may lead to hemiplegia or paraplegia
14. Mental retardation as a result of cerebral hypoxia and brain damage
15. Fatigue
16. High cheek bones
17. Prominent forehead
Diagnosis
1. Sickle Turbidity test: The blood specimen for test is mixed with anticoagulated blood and a special solution. A cloudy result at the end of the test is positive for sickle cell HbS.
2. Stained Blood Smear: This shows a few number of sickle erythrocytes.
3. ‘Fingerprint’ Electrophoresis: Reveals the status of the haemoglobin.
4. Sickle Cell Slide Preparation or Sickling Test: Reveals sickling erythrocytes.
Sickle cell disease is inheritable through the genes of parents who are either sicklers or carriers of the sickle cell trait genes
The normal RBC has HbA, is biconcave, non-nucleated and has a life span of 120 days. The RBC with haemoglobin S is less soluble and has a life span of about 26-35 days. Reduced oxygen tension coupled with low PH brings about distortion within the cell making them crescent shaped.
There is rapid destruction of the sickle cells leading to a thicker, heavier and sticky blood. The thickened blood is stagnated within the vessels leading to tissue hypoxia. The excess fragments resulting from excessive haemolysis become difficult for the liver and the spleen to cope with thereby resulting in overwork, hepatomegaly and splenomegaly.
The sluggish, crescent-shaped red blood cells occlude the blood vessels causing thrombosis/infarcts in organs e.g. in the lower limbs, joints, lungs, brain, kidneys and mesentery. The infarction/hypoxia cause bones/joints pain. There is chest pain due to lung infarction; dehydration due to renal concentration defects as a result of kidney infarction.
There is fatigue as a result of reduced blood and energy supply leading to decreased metabolism and further worsening in energy supply. Pyrexia is usually due to tissue hypoxia and necrosis leading to inflammatory reaction. There are signs and symptoms of nervous disturbance due to infarction and in severe cases stroke may arise.
The rapid haemolysis of the RBC and haemoglobin results in anaemia. Anaemia is then accompanied by angina pectoris, cardiomegaly, tachycardia and heart failure.
The Haem portion of the haemolysed Haemoglobin is broken down to amino acid, and Iron or ferritin (stored in the liver). The portion which contains bilirubin and biliverdin remains in circulation resulting in jaundice.
In childhood, the bone marrow attempts to compensate for the excessive RBC destruction, leading to the enlargement of the bones of the face and skull. This brings about the development of a high cheek bone and prominent forehead.
Over activity of the bone marrow brings about rapid proliferation of the white blood cells (WBC) which subsequently leads to increased susceptibility to infection. Patient may develop gallstones as a result of infection. Sometimes leg ulcers are present.
Clinical signs and symptoms
1. Joint pains
2. Fever
3. NDehydration
4. Chronic anaemia leading to tachycardia, cardiomegaly and heart failure.
5. Splenomegaly
6. Hepatomegaly
7. Reduced haemoglobin level
8. Kidney failure
9. Chronic ulcer above the ankle
10. Haematuria (blood in urine)
11. Susceptibility to infection
12. Priapism (persistent erection of the penis)
13. Paralysis due to cerebral hypoxia which may lead to hemiplegia or paraplegia
14. Mental retardation as a result of cerebral hypoxia and brain damage
15. Fatigue
16. High cheek bones
17. Prominent forehead
Diagnosis
1. Sickle Turbidity test: The blood specimen for test is mixed with anticoagulated blood and a special solution. A cloudy result at the end of the test is positive for sickle cell HbS.
2. Stained Blood Smear: This shows a few number of sickle erythrocytes.
3. ‘Fingerprint’ Electrophoresis: Reveals the status of the haemoglobin.
4. Sickle Cell Slide Preparation or Sickling Test: Reveals sickling erythrocytes.
Normal Platelet Count
Platelets are minute cells with irregular shape that are present in the blood of mammals. These cells are formed by the fragmentation of bone marrow cells called megakaryocytes. These cells lack nucleus and have a lifespan of around eight to twelve days. Blood platelets play an important role in stopping bleeding by forming blood clots. While a low level of platelets in the blood may result in excessive bleeding, high platelet count may cause the formation of blood clots, which can block blood vessels and result in heart attacks, strokes, blocked blood vessels in arms and legs, etc. Hence, a normal platelet count is necessary to avoid such conditions. Platelet count test is conducted as a part of the complete blood count and is often required to be performed, in case of bleeding disorders or bone marrow diseases. Read more on blood clotting process.
Normal Platelet Levels
In case of a normal healthy individual, the normal platelet level can range between 150000 and 450000 per μl (micro liter) of blood. According to some studies, almost 95% of healthy people have platelet values within this range. Even though a platelet count which is above or below this range is considered abnormal, some people with small variations are found to be perfectly healthy. However, drastic variations from the normal platelet count can be fatal. Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) and high platelet count (thrombocytosis) can cause problems in blood coagulation. Any of these conditions or a decrease in platelet function may result in a disease of the platelets, which is called a thrombocytopathy. Not only the variations in the platelet count, but dysfunctional platelets can also cause health problems. Read more on thrombocytopenia: causes, symptoms and treatment.
Even though the normal platelet levels of all healthy human beings are said to be within the range of 150000 and 450000 per μl (micro liter) of blood, slight variations are considered normal in some people. According to some health experts, a value between 150000 and 450000 per μl of blood is the normal platelet count in children, whereas in adults, it can be between 150000 and 400000 per μl of blood. It has also been observed that people living in high altitudes have an increased platelet count, as compared to their counterparts. This condition can also be found in women after childbirth and those who consume oral contraceptives. Strenuous exercises may also cause a hike in the platelet count. Some women may have a low blood platelet, just before menstruation. Patients who are undergoing chemotherapy and radiation therapy may also have a low platelet count. Some rare genetic disorders, like Glanzmann’s Thrombasthenia, Bernard-Soulier disease, Chediak-Higashi syndrome, etc., may also cause defective platelets. Read more on blood disorders.
A platelet level which is below 50,000 or above 1,000,000 is considered as critical. If the platelet count sinks below 20,000, such a condition may cause spontaneous bleeding and is considered as life threatening. In short, drastic variations in the normal platelet count can be considered as serious conditions, which have to be addressed as soon as possible. While these variations can be indications of diseases, serious health problems may also arise from such variations. As such, any variation in platelet count should be brought to the notice of a medical professional immediately.
Normal Platelet Levels
In case of a normal healthy individual, the normal platelet level can range between 150000 and 450000 per μl (micro liter) of blood. According to some studies, almost 95% of healthy people have platelet values within this range. Even though a platelet count which is above or below this range is considered abnormal, some people with small variations are found to be perfectly healthy. However, drastic variations from the normal platelet count can be fatal. Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) and high platelet count (thrombocytosis) can cause problems in blood coagulation. Any of these conditions or a decrease in platelet function may result in a disease of the platelets, which is called a thrombocytopathy. Not only the variations in the platelet count, but dysfunctional platelets can also cause health problems. Read more on thrombocytopenia: causes, symptoms and treatment.
Even though the normal platelet levels of all healthy human beings are said to be within the range of 150000 and 450000 per μl (micro liter) of blood, slight variations are considered normal in some people. According to some health experts, a value between 150000 and 450000 per μl of blood is the normal platelet count in children, whereas in adults, it can be between 150000 and 400000 per μl of blood. It has also been observed that people living in high altitudes have an increased platelet count, as compared to their counterparts. This condition can also be found in women after childbirth and those who consume oral contraceptives. Strenuous exercises may also cause a hike in the platelet count. Some women may have a low blood platelet, just before menstruation. Patients who are undergoing chemotherapy and radiation therapy may also have a low platelet count. Some rare genetic disorders, like Glanzmann’s Thrombasthenia, Bernard-Soulier disease, Chediak-Higashi syndrome, etc., may also cause defective platelets. Read more on blood disorders.
A platelet level which is below 50,000 or above 1,000,000 is considered as critical. If the platelet count sinks below 20,000, such a condition may cause spontaneous bleeding and is considered as life threatening. In short, drastic variations in the normal platelet count can be considered as serious conditions, which have to be addressed as soon as possible. While these variations can be indications of diseases, serious health problems may also arise from such variations. As such, any variation in platelet count should be brought to the notice of a medical professional immediately.
Myelodysplastic Syndromes
Myelodysplastic syndromes are group of diseases of blood and bone marrow (stem cells), a collection of hematological conditions characterized by hampered production of myeloid blood cells, it also involves problems related to blood production (hematopoiesis) characterized by defects in blood-forming cells (hematopoietic cells). During the course of this disorder, bone marrow failure causes worsened cytopenias. Almost 35% patients suffering from Myelodysplastic syndrome develop Acute Myelogenous Leukemia in due course of time (varying from couple of months to few years).
As already mentioned above Myelodysplastic syndrome is a collection of diseases, which includes:
Refractory anemia (RA)
Refractory anemia with ringed sideroblasts (RARS)
Refractory anemia with excess blasts (RAEB)
Refractory anemia with excess blasts in transformation (RAEB-T)
Refractory cytopenia with multilineage dysplasia (RCMD)
Chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML)
What causes Myelodysplastic Syndrome?
Although the exact causes of Myelodysplastic syndrome are still unknown, there are some probable causes identified which may lead to MDS, they are:
Over exposure of toxic chemicals (pesticides, insecticides, fungicides, chemical compounds like benzene etc.) or radiation to our body is the main cause of development of Myelodysplastic syndrome. People undergoing cancer treatment such as radiation and chemotherapy and use of radiomimetic alkylating agents develop secondary Myelodysplastic syndrome as an effect of late toxicity caused by the treatment.
Along with the above mentioned causes; smoking, congenital diseases (such as Fanconi Anemia), inheritance at some extent and age are some more possible causes of Myelodysplastic syndrome in people.
Due to the above mentioned causes and some unknown reasons mutation in multi-potent bone marrow stem cells may occur leading to Myelodysplastic syndrome.
What are the symptoms of Myelodysplastic syndrome?
Signs and symptoms of Myelodysplastic syndrome are not very conclusive as they are non-specific and may vary from patient to patient:
Shorter breathes, chronic tiredness/weakness, chilled sensations and periodic chest pain
Enlargement of liver (also known as hepatomegaly), enlargement of spleen (known as splenomegaly) in some cases
Paler skin and development of spots under the skin due to bleeding (known as petechiae or ecchymoses)
In some cases fever, dyspnea, cough and frequent infections are also part of symptoms
Formation of abnormal granules in blood
Abnormality with chromosomes such as number of chromosomes (may increase or decrease abnormally) and chromosomal translocation etc.
Decrease in neutrophil count (also known as neutropenia), low blood cell count of white blood cells, red blood (anemia) cells and platelets (thrombocytopenia characterized by gum bleeding).
Blood in stool in some cases
How Myelodysplastic syndrome is diagnosed?
As mentioned above, symptoms related to Myelodysplastic syndrome are not very conclusive, which leads to a condition in which it becomes hard to confirm the syndrome just by observing the symptoms. Blood cell counts test (Complete Blood Count (CBC) to count number of white blood cells, red blood cells, platelets etc., Peripheral blood smear test etc.), patient’s medical history such as treatment involving chemotherapy and radiation therapy and family history to confirm inheritance and patient’s social/work history to check if he/she is anywhere exposed to chemicals thought to cause MDS, physical examination of patient, Cytogenetic Analysis (blood cells are examined for changes in chromosomes), Bone Marrow Aspiration and Biopsy to check existence of abnormal cells, Cytochemistry test, Cytogenetics test for chromosomes count, Flow Cytometry, Immunocytochemistry and Molecular Genetic Studies etc. tests/procedures are used to diagnose Myelodysplastic syndrome.
As already mentioned above Myelodysplastic syndrome is a collection of diseases, which includes:
Refractory anemia (RA)
Refractory anemia with ringed sideroblasts (RARS)
Refractory anemia with excess blasts (RAEB)
Refractory anemia with excess blasts in transformation (RAEB-T)
Refractory cytopenia with multilineage dysplasia (RCMD)
Chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML)
What causes Myelodysplastic Syndrome?
Although the exact causes of Myelodysplastic syndrome are still unknown, there are some probable causes identified which may lead to MDS, they are:
Over exposure of toxic chemicals (pesticides, insecticides, fungicides, chemical compounds like benzene etc.) or radiation to our body is the main cause of development of Myelodysplastic syndrome. People undergoing cancer treatment such as radiation and chemotherapy and use of radiomimetic alkylating agents develop secondary Myelodysplastic syndrome as an effect of late toxicity caused by the treatment.
Along with the above mentioned causes; smoking, congenital diseases (such as Fanconi Anemia), inheritance at some extent and age are some more possible causes of Myelodysplastic syndrome in people.
Due to the above mentioned causes and some unknown reasons mutation in multi-potent bone marrow stem cells may occur leading to Myelodysplastic syndrome.
What are the symptoms of Myelodysplastic syndrome?
Signs and symptoms of Myelodysplastic syndrome are not very conclusive as they are non-specific and may vary from patient to patient:
Shorter breathes, chronic tiredness/weakness, chilled sensations and periodic chest pain
Enlargement of liver (also known as hepatomegaly), enlargement of spleen (known as splenomegaly) in some cases
Paler skin and development of spots under the skin due to bleeding (known as petechiae or ecchymoses)
In some cases fever, dyspnea, cough and frequent infections are also part of symptoms
Formation of abnormal granules in blood
Abnormality with chromosomes such as number of chromosomes (may increase or decrease abnormally) and chromosomal translocation etc.
Decrease in neutrophil count (also known as neutropenia), low blood cell count of white blood cells, red blood (anemia) cells and platelets (thrombocytopenia characterized by gum bleeding).
Blood in stool in some cases
How Myelodysplastic syndrome is diagnosed?
As mentioned above, symptoms related to Myelodysplastic syndrome are not very conclusive, which leads to a condition in which it becomes hard to confirm the syndrome just by observing the symptoms. Blood cell counts test (Complete Blood Count (CBC) to count number of white blood cells, red blood cells, platelets etc., Peripheral blood smear test etc.), patient’s medical history such as treatment involving chemotherapy and radiation therapy and family history to confirm inheritance and patient’s social/work history to check if he/she is anywhere exposed to chemicals thought to cause MDS, physical examination of patient, Cytogenetic Analysis (blood cells are examined for changes in chromosomes), Bone Marrow Aspiration and Biopsy to check existence of abnormal cells, Cytochemistry test, Cytogenetics test for chromosomes count, Flow Cytometry, Immunocytochemistry and Molecular Genetic Studies etc. tests/procedures are used to diagnose Myelodysplastic syndrome.
Low Blood Platelets
Platelets are small tissues present in the body, which circulate round the body. The medical name for platelets is thrombocytes and are necessary for fighting infections and blood clotting. The platelet level differs from person to person, the normal count ranges from 150,000 - 400,000/ml. If the counts drops lower than 150,000 it is regarded as low blood platelets count and is also known as thrombocytopenia. There are three levels in low blood platelets, mild, moderate and severe, based on the count. Platelets of 100,000 - 150,000/ml are regarded mild, 50,000 - 100,000/mlƒw are regarded moderate whereas, less than 50,000/ml are regarded severe. Based on the level, medications are suggested.
Low Blood Platelets Causes
Generally, when one sees the blood test report, a number of figures are given. You are supposed to show the doctor the report, he will give you the shortest possible explanation of the blood report, which increases curiosity rather than curbing it. You do not understand why things are like that and what they mean. So here are the causes of low blood platelets, which will help you to recognize the causes of the low count.
Platelets are produced by the bone marrow in the body. If a person is effected by a bone marrow disorder, the bone marrow does not produce enough platelets and this results in low platelets in blood.
Another cause of low blood platelet is the enlargement of the spleen. This condition is seen in myelofibrosis and some forms of cirrhosis. If the spleen enlarges, the blood platelets are trapped inside and this results in lower number of platelets in the bloodstream. More on the symptoms of cirrhosis of the liver.
Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura is one of the conditions of low blood platelets, in which an abnormal amount of antibodies are produced by the immune system. These antibodies destroy the body's platelets. The reason for the production of these antibodies is yet unknown.
Heparin can also cause low platelet count. Heparin is a drug that is prescribed in the treatment of conditions like thrombosis. Though this drug is prescribed to avoid blood clots, it can sometimes work adversely and stimulate blood clots instead. If this happens, a large number of platelets are used up, which results in low blood platelets. Read more on blood clot symptoms.
In diseases like lupus and HIV, the body can destroy or use up too many platelets, resulting in low blood platelet count.
Aplastic anemia is one disorder of the blood, in which the the body stops making enough new blood cells.
An infection of the hepatitis C virus is another cause of low platelets count as it reduces the platelets in the blood stream.
Besides these causes, the other causes which might be the reason for low blood platelet count are; chemotherapy, chronic liver diseases, chronic lymphocytic leukemia and alcoholism.
Low Blood Platelets Symptoms
The most common symptoms of low blood platelets are as follows:
One of the most obvious symptom of low blood platelets is bleeding. The nose, the gums or the cheeks inside the mouth bleed for no reason. Also, if one gets even a small wound, the bleeding does not stop for a long time.
Bleeding inside the body is also possible (internal bleeding). The main symptom of internal bleeding caused due to purpura, is red or purple discolorations on the skin.
Reddish purple spots on the body, which look like a rash, are also a symptom of low blood platelet count. They are called as petechiae.
Women with low blood platelet count experience heavy bleeding during menstruation.
Tiredness, easy bruising and uncertainty or unnecessary fear can also be a symptom of low blood platelets.
Treatment for Low Blood Platelets
The treatment of low blood platelets depends upon the cause. If the platelet count is of the severe level, the patient is treated in the hospital by a transfusion of platelets. If the count has lowered because of some specific drug, doctors suggest a substitute drug. In cases where antibodies destroy platelets, corticosteroid such as prednisone are suggested temporarily. And when the low platelets are because of spleen trapping, the spleen can be surgically removed. More on blood disorders.
This is was all about low blood platelets. You can avoid a drastic drop in the platelet level by consuming leafy vegetables and fruits like bananas and oranges. Making the bone marrow stronger by adding calcium in your diet, through milk and dairy products is also one way to avoid low blood platelets.
Low Blood Platelets Causes
Generally, when one sees the blood test report, a number of figures are given. You are supposed to show the doctor the report, he will give you the shortest possible explanation of the blood report, which increases curiosity rather than curbing it. You do not understand why things are like that and what they mean. So here are the causes of low blood platelets, which will help you to recognize the causes of the low count.
Platelets are produced by the bone marrow in the body. If a person is effected by a bone marrow disorder, the bone marrow does not produce enough platelets and this results in low platelets in blood.
Another cause of low blood platelet is the enlargement of the spleen. This condition is seen in myelofibrosis and some forms of cirrhosis. If the spleen enlarges, the blood platelets are trapped inside and this results in lower number of platelets in the bloodstream. More on the symptoms of cirrhosis of the liver.
Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura is one of the conditions of low blood platelets, in which an abnormal amount of antibodies are produced by the immune system. These antibodies destroy the body's platelets. The reason for the production of these antibodies is yet unknown.
Heparin can also cause low platelet count. Heparin is a drug that is prescribed in the treatment of conditions like thrombosis. Though this drug is prescribed to avoid blood clots, it can sometimes work adversely and stimulate blood clots instead. If this happens, a large number of platelets are used up, which results in low blood platelets. Read more on blood clot symptoms.
In diseases like lupus and HIV, the body can destroy or use up too many platelets, resulting in low blood platelet count.
Aplastic anemia is one disorder of the blood, in which the the body stops making enough new blood cells.
An infection of the hepatitis C virus is another cause of low platelets count as it reduces the platelets in the blood stream.
Besides these causes, the other causes which might be the reason for low blood platelet count are; chemotherapy, chronic liver diseases, chronic lymphocytic leukemia and alcoholism.
Low Blood Platelets Symptoms
The most common symptoms of low blood platelets are as follows:
One of the most obvious symptom of low blood platelets is bleeding. The nose, the gums or the cheeks inside the mouth bleed for no reason. Also, if one gets even a small wound, the bleeding does not stop for a long time.
Bleeding inside the body is also possible (internal bleeding). The main symptom of internal bleeding caused due to purpura, is red or purple discolorations on the skin.
Reddish purple spots on the body, which look like a rash, are also a symptom of low blood platelet count. They are called as petechiae.
Women with low blood platelet count experience heavy bleeding during menstruation.
Tiredness, easy bruising and uncertainty or unnecessary fear can also be a symptom of low blood platelets.
Treatment for Low Blood Platelets
The treatment of low blood platelets depends upon the cause. If the platelet count is of the severe level, the patient is treated in the hospital by a transfusion of platelets. If the count has lowered because of some specific drug, doctors suggest a substitute drug. In cases where antibodies destroy platelets, corticosteroid such as prednisone are suggested temporarily. And when the low platelets are because of spleen trapping, the spleen can be surgically removed. More on blood disorders.
This is was all about low blood platelets. You can avoid a drastic drop in the platelet level by consuming leafy vegetables and fruits like bananas and oranges. Making the bone marrow stronger by adding calcium in your diet, through milk and dairy products is also one way to avoid low blood platelets.
Blood Spots Under the Skin
There are two forms of blood spots under the skin. One is purpura which can be described as red or purple discolorations on the skin and its size may vary in between 0.3 - 1 cm. This is caused due to bleeding under the skin but is not due to any damage to the blood vessels. The other one is petechiae which are tiny flat spots that are red or purple in color and are less than 2 mm in size. It is caused due to hemorrhage of blood vessels. As a result, the blood leaks out and gets into the tissue below the skin.
Some Facts About Blood Spots Under the Skin
Blood spots under the skin can develop in any part of the body. Elderly people gets red blood spots under the skin in the areas like forearms, hands, legs and feet. Women often get on the thighs, arms and buttocks. Some people are prone to bruises and blood spots under the skin. Women get blood spots under the skin more easily than men. That does not mean that they are suffering from any major health problems. If there is a bruise on the leg, it often takes longer time for the blood spots to disappear as compared to those on the upper part of the body like arms or face. It has been found that these blood spots tend to spread towards the lower part from the upper part of the body because of the gravity.
What Causes Blood Spots Under the Skin?
Spots of blood under the skin often appear all of a sudden. Following are the common causes responsible for bleeding under the skin:
Health problems that affect blood clotting, like hemophilia, thrombocytopenia, certain forms of cancer like leukemia or multiple myeloma, lupus, cirrhosis or any other kinds of blood disorders.
Any kind of infection that leads to accumulation of toxic substances in the blood or tissue.
Swelling in the blood vessels or vasculitis.
In some people, blood spots under the skin occur due to hereditary reasons.
With aging, the fat layers under the skin becomes thin. As a result, the padding effect of the skin deteriorates. Therefore, even a minor injury on the skin can lead to the breakage of the blood vessels.
Medicines like aspirin and anticoagulants that causes thinning of blood.
Malnutrition caused by vitamin deficiency of vitamin B12 or C or K or folic acid.
Treatment for Blood Spots Under the Skin
In most cases, blood spots under the skin get cured on its own and does not require any treatment. However, if some home treatments are done then it can speed up the healing process. Like any other injury, rest is very important to get rid of blood spots under the skin. If there is pain and swelling in the area then application of ice pack can control them. Do not apply ice on them for more than 15 minutes at a time. After that, take a break of few hours and then reapply. Try to keep the injury site in elevated condition, above the level of heart, in order to bring down swelling. For the first 3 days of the injury avoid heat compression of hot bath as heat promote swelling. Later, you can apply heat and cold compression alternatively and it has been proved to be beneficial. A gentle massage of the affected area also improves blood circulation. However, if rubbing of the area gives pain avoid massaging.
In case the blood spots under the skin develop within an hour of the injury, and is accompanied by excessive swelling and pain, it could be due to a sprain or a fracture, and it requires immediate medical attention. When you have got blood spots under the skin, then you should stop drinking alcohol and the use of tobacco products. Alcohol can increase the swelling of the bruised spot and smoking delays the repair work of the damaged tissue by restricting the blood supply to that region.
Some Facts About Blood Spots Under the Skin
Blood spots under the skin can develop in any part of the body. Elderly people gets red blood spots under the skin in the areas like forearms, hands, legs and feet. Women often get on the thighs, arms and buttocks. Some people are prone to bruises and blood spots under the skin. Women get blood spots under the skin more easily than men. That does not mean that they are suffering from any major health problems. If there is a bruise on the leg, it often takes longer time for the blood spots to disappear as compared to those on the upper part of the body like arms or face. It has been found that these blood spots tend to spread towards the lower part from the upper part of the body because of the gravity.
What Causes Blood Spots Under the Skin?
Spots of blood under the skin often appear all of a sudden. Following are the common causes responsible for bleeding under the skin:
Health problems that affect blood clotting, like hemophilia, thrombocytopenia, certain forms of cancer like leukemia or multiple myeloma, lupus, cirrhosis or any other kinds of blood disorders.
Any kind of infection that leads to accumulation of toxic substances in the blood or tissue.
Swelling in the blood vessels or vasculitis.
In some people, blood spots under the skin occur due to hereditary reasons.
With aging, the fat layers under the skin becomes thin. As a result, the padding effect of the skin deteriorates. Therefore, even a minor injury on the skin can lead to the breakage of the blood vessels.
Medicines like aspirin and anticoagulants that causes thinning of blood.
Malnutrition caused by vitamin deficiency of vitamin B12 or C or K or folic acid.
Treatment for Blood Spots Under the Skin
In most cases, blood spots under the skin get cured on its own and does not require any treatment. However, if some home treatments are done then it can speed up the healing process. Like any other injury, rest is very important to get rid of blood spots under the skin. If there is pain and swelling in the area then application of ice pack can control them. Do not apply ice on them for more than 15 minutes at a time. After that, take a break of few hours and then reapply. Try to keep the injury site in elevated condition, above the level of heart, in order to bring down swelling. For the first 3 days of the injury avoid heat compression of hot bath as heat promote swelling. Later, you can apply heat and cold compression alternatively and it has been proved to be beneficial. A gentle massage of the affected area also improves blood circulation. However, if rubbing of the area gives pain avoid massaging.
In case the blood spots under the skin develop within an hour of the injury, and is accompanied by excessive swelling and pain, it could be due to a sprain or a fracture, and it requires immediate medical attention. When you have got blood spots under the skin, then you should stop drinking alcohol and the use of tobacco products. Alcohol can increase the swelling of the bruised spot and smoking delays the repair work of the damaged tissue by restricting the blood supply to that region.
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