Clinical Diagnosis · Haematological System · Medium
Thrombocytopenia
Meaning: An abnormally low number of platelets in the blood, increasing the risk of bruising and bleeding.
In practice: Thrombocytopenia with a platelet count of 15 caused petechiae on her legs.
Word parts
- thromb- means clot
- -penia means too few, a deficiency
Many medical words are built from Greek and Latin parts like these, so learning a few helps you work out new terms.
Quick check
Two questions on related clinical diagnosis words.
Which word means: A recurrent, irresistible urge to steal items that are not needed for personal use or money.
Answer: Kleptomania
Which word means: Excessive thirst leading to drinking large volumes of fluid, a classic symptom of diabetes.
Answer: Polydipsia
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