What are the causes of thrombocytopenia during pregnancy?

What are the causes of thrombocytopenia during pregnancy?

Most cases (99%) of thrombocytopenia during preg-nancy are related to one of three causes: hypertensive disor-ders such as preeclampsia, gestational thrombocytopenia, or idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). When evaluating the parturient with thrombocytopenia there are two specific issues to consider. The first concern is whether the disorder is static or dynamic. If the disorder is static, as occurs during gestational thrombocytopenia or ITP, the platelet count is usually stable. If the disorder is dynamic, as occurs during preeclampsia, the platelet count may change rapidly and it is important to obtain serial platelet counts. The second issue is whether platelet function is normal or abnormal. Platelet function is typically normal in gestational thrombocytopenia and ITP and usually abnormal in preeclampsia.