Low platelets are associated with which sign?

Low platelets are associated with which sign?

• A. Ecchymoses
• B. Petechiae
• C. Hematomas
• D. Gingival bleeding

Answer: (B)

Low platelets disrupt primary hemostasis, so tiny capillaries leak after minor trauma, producing petechiae. These are tiny pinpoint hemorrhages on the skin or mucous membranes, typically 1–2 mm, that do not blanch with pressure. Ecchymoses are larger bruises from deeper or more extensive bleeding, hematomas are collections of blood within tissues, and gingival bleeding can occur with various conditions and is not as specifically tied to thrombocytopenia. So petechiae best reflect a low platelet count because they arise from the inability to form the initial platelet plug in small vessels.

Low platelets disrupt primary hemostasis, so tiny capillaries leak after minor trauma, producing petechiae. These are tiny pinpoint hemorrhages on the skin or mucous membranes, typically 1–2 mm, that do not blanch with pressure. Ecchymoses are larger bruises from deeper or more extensive bleeding, hematomas are collections of blood within tissues, and gingival bleeding can occur with various conditions and is not as specifically tied to thrombocytopenia. So petechiae best reflect a low platelet count because they arise from the inability to form the initial platelet plug in small vessels.