Glanzmann's thrombasthenia (patient information)
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Glanzmann's thrombasthenia |
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Glanzmann's thrombasthenia On the Web |
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Risk calculators and risk factors for Glanzmann's thrombasthenia |
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Glanzmann disease is a rare disorder of blood platelets, which results in easy bruising and nosebleeds.
What are the symptoms of Glanzmann's thrombasthenia?
Symptoms may include any of the following:
- Heavy bleeding during and after surgery
- Bleeding gums
- Bruising easily
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Nosebleeds that do not stop easily
- Prolonged bleeding with minor injuries
What causes Glanzmann's thrombasthenia?
Glanzmann disease is caused by the lack of a protein that is normally on the surface of platelets. This substance is needed for platelets to clump together to form blood clots.
The condition is congenital, which means it is present from birth. There are several genetic abnormalities that can cause the condition.
When to seek urgent medical care?
Call your health care provider if:
- You have bleeding or bruising of an unknown cause
- Bleeding does not stop after usual treatments
Diagnosis
The following tests may be used to diagnose this condition:
- Complete blood count (CBC)
- Bleeding time
- Platelet aggregation tests
- Prothrombin time (PT) and partial thromboplastin time (PTT)
Other tests may be needed. Family members may also need to be tested.
Treatment options
There is no specific treatment for this disorder. Platelet transfusions may be given to people who are having severe bleeding.
Where to find medical care for Glanzmann's thrombasthenia?
Directions to Hospitals Treating Glanzmann's thrombasthenia
What to expect (Outlook/Prognosis)?
Glanzmann disease is a lifelong condition, and there is no cure. You should take special steps to try to avoid bleeding if you have this condition.
Anyone with a bleeding disorder should avoid taking aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen. These drugs can prolong bleeding times by preventing platelets from clumping.
Possible complications
Complications may include:
- Severe bleeding
- Iron deficiency anemia in menstruating women due to abnormally heavy bleeding
Prevention
Glanzmann disease is an inherited condition. There is no known prevention.