Steven A. Sandler, M.D.
Board-Certified in
Hematology & Oncology
Telephone Numbers
Office: (847) 933-0875
Fax: (847) 933-0878
Answering Service: (773) 594-7340
Skokie Office
9669 Kenton, Suite 510
Skokie, IL 60076
Map and directions
Chicago Office
7447 W. Talcott Ave., Suite 318
Chicago, IL 60631
Map and directions
Call us at 847-933-0875 or send Dr. Sandler a message via the form below. Please note that this form is for non-emergencies only.
Platelet Disorders Information and Treatment
About Platelet Disorders
Platelet disorders (also called thrombocyte disorders) result from having too few or too many platelets. Other platelet disorders result when platelets don’t work normally. Platelets are produced in the bone marrow, help wounds heal, and prevent bleeding by forming blood clots.
If the blood has a low number of platelets, there is a risk of mild to severe bleeding. If the blood has too many platelets, there is a greater risk of having blood clots. With other platelet disorders, the platelets do not work as they should.
Common Platelet Disorders
Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP)
Von Willebrand Disease (Platelet Aggregation Disorder)
About Platelet Disorder Treatment
Platelet disorders are divided into two categories and treatment depends on which category the disorder falls under. The first category involves low platelet levels, which is called thrombocytopenia. One of the common causes of thrombocytopenia is an immune disorder. This is easily treated with a number of new options. Thrombocytopenia is also found in people who have other conditions such as enlarged spleens. Most of these disorders are not serious and are easily diagnosed.
The other category of platelet disorders includes problems in which the platelets do not adhere (stick) to each other properly. This can be associated with excessive bruising or bleeding. One of the common platelet disorders that causes abnormal platelet adherence is called von Willebrand's disease. This is an easily diagnosed disorder which is frequently overlooked. There are excellent treatments for this disorder. It is especially common in women who have excessive menstrual bleeding but can occur in any person. There are multiple treatment options for von Willebrand's disease. Treatment usually depends on the severity of the condition
