Thrombocytopenia can be divided into several categories based on its extent as well as its underlying etiology.

Based on platelet count:^[1]

• Mild: (100,000 – 150,000 per µL)
• Moderate (50,000 to 99,000 per µL)
• Severe (<50,000 per µL)

Note that these amounts may not be the same for every condition and one should interpreted them according to the underlying etiology of thrombocytopenia. For example, in idiopathic thrombocytopenia (ITP), a platelet count of <30,000/µL represents severe thrombocytopenia and for gestational thrombocytopenia, a platelet count between 80,000 and 150,000/microL is considered as mild thrombocytopenia. Although one may instinctively assume that severe thrombocytopenia is associated with increased probability of bleeding and the subsequent need for treatment, such an association between platelet count and the risk of bleeding is not always predictable.

Based on etiology:

To see the full list of conditions that could cause thrombocytopenia, please click here.