Many things can cause a low platelet count. The short answer is to ask your doctor, who has your complete medical history. If, for some reason, you just want to know (trivia buff)here\'s a short summary:

The first one to think about is massive blood loss. Less blood equals less platelets.

Then we have infections, which lower production of platelets.

Radiation, nutitional deficiencies (folate, B12), metastatic cancer, and various drugs can also lower platelet production.

Increased platelet destruction can also lower platelet counts. Various drugs can do this, as can systemic lupus, and a post-transfusion state. An overactive spleen from cirrhosis can also chew up the platelets, as can a number of inherited diseases.

I hope this is helpful.

Christopher Maloney, Naturopathic Doctor Augusta and Portland, Maine www.maloneymedical.com Individualized research available for a fee. Informational only, I cannot treat or diagnose via the web.