Question
My friend’s child recently went to the hospital for a check-up and found that the platelet count was as high as 500. I don’t know how to deal with this situation, what should I do?
Answer
The normal range for platelets is 100 to 300. In cases where children have elevated platelet counts, it is usually a response to acute or chronic inflammation, iron-deficiency anemia, and the like. This increase generally does not exceed 500. After treatment, the platelet count usually returns to normal levels quickly. It is recommended to identify the cause and type of anemia clearly. If it is iron-deficiency anemia (microcytic hypochromic anemia), the slight increase in platelets is often related to the enhanced hematopoietic function of the bone marrow caused by iron-deficiency anemia. As long as the anemia is treated and corrected, platelets will also return to normal. It is advisable to seek medical attention and treatment promptly whenever you have a cold or illness, allowing the doctor to directly examine and make an accurate diagnosis for safety.