Review

Pregnancy and thrombocytopenia

  • Mert Kazandı
  • Volkan Turan
  • İsmail Mete İtil

Turk J Obstet Gynecol 2010;7(4):247-250

Objective:

The assessment of thrombocytopenia in pregnancy which is the most frequently seen haematologic complication.

Material and method:

We reviewed 96 thrombocytopenic pregnants retrospectively that were followed up in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology in Ege University between 2005-2009. Following process of pregnancy, thrombocyte levels at the time of diagnosis, delivery types and the condition of foetuses subsequent to birth were determined.

Results:

96 thrombocytopenic pregnants were hospitalized in these years because of various reasons. While 42 patients were followed up due to HELLP syndrome, ITP was established in 16 women and 38 patients were thought to correspond with gestational thrombocytopenia. Fifty percent of patients were primigravida and 14% of patients had advanced maternal age. Syndrome occured after delivery in 6 patients. Although drains were placed subfascially and intraabdominally during ceserean, relaparotomy was performed in 2 patients because of haematoma. Neonatal thrombocytopenia didn’t appear at no time whatever.

Discussion:

Thrombocytopenia is emphasized carefully during pregnancy. To make a decision about platelets, more than one blood sample should be taken. For differential diagnosis, advanced tests should be done and the clinicians should reach precise diagnose in a short time. Otherwise, maternal and foetal morbidity or mortality may occur. Patient’s general condition and the number of platelets are the factors for choosing the type of delivery. If the number of platelets are under 50000/mm3, ceserean is recommended. However, if not, vaginal delivery is suggested in the absence of any complication.

Keywords: Thrombocytopenia, pregnancy