Which department should I visit for low platelet count in children?

In general, children with low platelet counts can visit departments such as pediatrics, hematology, rheumatology and immunology, infectious diseases, or emergency medicine, depending on specific symptoms and potential causes. The details are as follows:

1. Pediatrics

Pediatrics is the primary department for common childhood illnesses. If parents are unsure of the cause of their child's low platelet count and the child only shows a mild decrease in platelet levels without severe symptoms such as significant bleeding or fever, an initial visit to pediatrics is recommended. Doctors will use basic tests like complete blood count (CBC) to assess the severity of thrombocytopenia and determine whether referral to a specialized department is necessary.

2. Hematology

If a child’s low platelet count persists or the platelet level drops significantly, especially when accompanied by symptoms such as mucocutaneous bleeding, gum bleeding, or pallor, a visit to the hematology department is required. Hematologists specialize in diagnosing and treating blood disorders such as immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), aplastic anemia, and leukemia. They may perform bone marrow aspiration and immunological tests to identify the underlying cause and develop a targeted treatment plan.

3. Rheumatology and Immunology

When low platelet count in children is accompanied by symptoms such as joint pain, rash, fever, or oral ulcers, it may be related to rheumatic or autoimmune diseases—such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or juvenile idiopathic arthritis. These conditions affect immune system function, leading to reduced platelet production or increased destruction. In such cases, consultation with the rheumatology and immunology department is advised. Diagnosis is confirmed through tests including rheumatoid factor and autoantibody screening, followed by appropriate treatment.

4. Infectious Diseases

If a child has a clear history of infection—such as cold, diarrhea, or pneumonia—prior to developing low platelets, and presents with symptoms like fever, fatigue, or poor mental status, the drop in platelets may be temporary and infection-related. In such cases, the infectious diseases department should be consulted. Specialists will identify and treat the causative pathogen; once the infection is controlled, platelet levels typically return to normal gradually.

5. Emergency Medicine

If a child with low platelets experiences severe bleeding symptoms—such as uncontrollable nosebleeds, vomiting blood, bloody stools, or intracranial hemorrhage—the situation is critical and requires immediate attention in the emergency department. Emergency physicians will first stabilize the condition with urgent interventions like hemostasis and platelet transfusion, then coordinate with relevant specialists for further management based on the underlying cause.

In addition, if the child has a history of taking special medications, this should be clearly communicated to the doctor during consultation to aid accurate diagnosis. Parents should also avoid allowing the child to engage in strenuous physical activity to prevent injuries that could lead to worsening bleeding.