Re: INFO: New Therapy Significantly Increases Platelet Count -- About Thrombocytopenia and Hepatitis C

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"About Thrombocytopenia and Hepatitis C" "A reduction in platelet count to a level <150,000/mL is the defining characteristic of any type of thrombocytopenia and diagnosis can be confirmed following a routine blood test. Thrombocytopenia occurs in 5% - 10% of all patients hospitalised for any cause.[6] The cause of thrombocytopenia associated with hepatitis C is multi-factorial: inadequate thrombopoietin production by damaged liver, bone marrow suppression by interferon or viruses (HCV), sequestration of platelets in the spleen, and increased platelet destruction from an associated autoimmune process. The severity of thrombocytopenia varies and mild to moderate cases may resolve spontaneously without treatment, however severe thrombocytopenia can be associated with significant morbidity and mortality.[7],[8]"