Objectives

1. Describe the number, function, and life span of platelets
2. Define the mechanisms of thrombocytopenia and relative bleeding risk at any given platelet count
3. Describe the usual presentation and laboratory tests in the child who has acute idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, review the treatments, and know the usual prognosis.
4. List the differential diagnosis of children who have chromic thrombocytopenia and methods of differentiating the various causes