Increased Splenic Sequestration and Thrombocytopenia

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The page below is a sample from the LabCE course Authentic and Spurious Causes of Thrombocytopenia. Access the complete course and earn ASCLS P.A.C.E.-approved continuing education credits by subscribing online.

Learn more about Authentic and Spurious Causes of Thrombocytopenia (online CE course)
Increased Splenic Sequestration and Thrombocytopenia

The spleen is an incredibly important organ in the hematopoietic system. Normally, the spleen stores one-third of the platelets produced by the bone marrow, and the remaining two-thirds of the platelets produced by the bone marrow are in circulation. No platelets are stored in the bone marrow.
If a condition causes the spleen to enlarge (splenomegaly), the spleen will function abnormally, sequestering up to 90% of the total platelet mass. The result is a decrease in circulating platelets (thrombocytopenia). Some conditions associated with splenomegaly and resulting thrombocytopenia include hepatic cirrhosis, Gaucher's disease, some leukemias (like hairy cell leukemia), and lymphomas.

The location of the spleen is highlighted in yellow.