A low platelet count in dogs is often found when a complete blood count (CBC) is run. This finding may be indicative of various conditions in dogs, therefore it will often prompt the veterinarian to recommend several other diagnostic tests in order to determine the primary cause of the low platelets.
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Function
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Platelets are cells responsible for clotting blood. This process, known as hemostasis, occurs when the platelets stick together releasing factors that promote coagulation of the blood.
Effects
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When the number of platelets are low, (a condition known as ''thrombocytopenia) they are no longer capable of carrying out their clotting functions properly. Normally, according to Marvistavet.com platelet counts are in the range of 200,000 to 500,000.
Causes
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According to PetEducation.com low platelet counts may occur when there is a decrease in production from the bone marrow, an increase in use from blood clotting, when the immune systems destroys them, and when the platelets are removed from the general circulation.
Conditions
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Some conditions associated with low platelet counts are as follows: bone marrow disorders, auto-immune diseases, tick born diseases, disseminated intravascular coagulation, cancer and disorders of the spleen. The administration of certain medications along with chemotherapy and radiation therapy may also cause low platelets as a side effect.
Considerations
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When the blood platelet concentrations drop to less than 40,000 per microliter dogs will become susceptible to bruising and bleeding episodes. Signs to watch out for are lethargy, weakness, pale gums, bruising and bleeding.
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