From the Research
Low platelets (thrombocytopenia) with high iron levels require prompt medical attention to diagnose and treat underlying conditions, which may include iron overload disorders, liver disease, or blood disorders, and treatment should be guided by the most recent and highest quality evidence, such as the 2023 study on primary immune thrombocytopenia in adults 1. The combination of low platelets and high iron levels can be caused by various factors, including:
- Iron overload disorders like hemochromatosis
- Liver disease
- Certain blood disorders, such as primary immune thrombocytopenia (ITP)
- Other conditions that may lead to iron overload, such as thalassemia Treatment depends on the underlying cause, but may include:
- Phlebotomy (blood removal) to reduce iron levels
- Chelation therapy with medications like deferasirox or deferoxamine for severe iron overload, as studied in the 2017 Cochrane review on deferasirox for managing iron overload in people with thalassaemia 2
- Addressing the cause of low platelets, which might require different medications, such as thrombopoietic agents or rituximab, as discussed in the 2023 study on primary immune thrombocytopenia in adults 1 While waiting for medical care, it is essential to avoid:
- Iron supplements
- Vitamin C, which enhances iron absorption
- Alcohol
- Raw seafood
- Aspirin and NSAIDs, which can affect platelet function, as highlighted in the 2018 survey on management of antithrombotic therapy in adults with immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) 3 A healthcare provider will likely order additional tests, including:
- Complete blood count
- Iron studies
- Liver function tests
- Possibly genetic testing for hemochromatosis Professional evaluation is crucial to determine the underlying cause and develop an effective treatment plan, as the combination of low platelets and high iron levels can indicate serious conditions, including liver disease, bone marrow disorders, or genetic conditions.