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Semin Thromb Hemost 2014; 40(06): 682-687
DOI: 10.1055/s-0034-1389080
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Thrombocytopenia in Older Adults

Brandon J. McMahon
1   Division of Hematology/Oncology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
,
Hau C. Kwaan
1   Division of Hematology/Oncology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
› Author Affiliations
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Publication History

Publication Date:
24 August 2014 (online)

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Abstract

Thrombocytopenia in older patients is associated with several characteristics that are often underrecognized. Among them are the risk of bleeding complications, the senescence of the bone marrow, the increased use of multiple drugs, and greater comorbidity. In this article, the various forms of thrombocytopenia, including primary and drug-associated immune thrombocytopenias, as well as other drug-associated thrombocytopenias, are reviewed. In addition, how age-related changes in platelet function may affect the bleeding risk is discussed.

Keywords

thrombocytopenia - older adults - bleeding - immune thrombocytopenic purpura - drug-induced thrombocytopenia
 

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