Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: July 22, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for WBC Count 3.6 and Platelets 105

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Viral Infection: A mild decrease in WBC count (leukopenia) and a slight decrease in platelets (thrombocytopenia) can be seen in various viral infections, which are common and often present with these laboratory findings.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Bone Marrow Suppression: This can be due to medications (e.g., chemotherapy), alcohol use, or certain medical conditions, leading to decreased production of blood cells, including white blood cells and platelets.
  • Vitamin Deficiencies: Deficiencies in vitamins like B12 or folate can affect bone marrow function, leading to decreased production of blood cells.
  • Chronic Diseases: Chronic diseases such as liver disease, kidney disease, or chronic infections (e.g., HIV) can lead to a decrease in WBC and platelet counts due to bone marrow suppression or splenic sequestration.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Aplastic Anemia: A rare but serious condition where the bone marrow fails to produce blood cells, which can be life-threatening if not promptly diagnosed and treated.
  • Leukemia or Lymphoma: Although less common, these conditions can present with abnormal blood cell counts and are critical to diagnose early for effective treatment.
  • Sepsis: In severe infections, the bone marrow can be suppressed, leading to decreased WBC and platelet counts. Sepsis is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Congenital Bone Marrow Failure Syndromes: Conditions like Fanconi anemia or dyskeratosis congenita are rare genetic disorders that affect the bone marrow's ability to produce blood cells.
  • Autoimmune Disorders: Certain autoimmune conditions, such as immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) or autoimmune neutropenia, can lead to isolated decreases in platelets or white blood cells, respectively.
  • Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH): A rare, acquired, life-threatening disease of the blood characterized by the destruction of red blood cells, bone marrow failure, and the potential for thrombotic events.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.