Macrothrombocytopenia (MTC) is a blood disorder in which blood cells called platelets are abnormally large. People with MTC also have thrombocytopenia, a low platelet count. MTC impairs blood clotting ...

Understanding the Context

Science Daily: Higher end of normal blood platelet count could indicate cancer Blood platelet counts at the higher end of normal suggest a high risk of cancer in men aged 60 or over, and should be investigated, according to new research. Blood platelet counts at the higher end ... DEAR DR. ROACH: My brother has low blood platelets and anemia.

Key Insights

He will be 73 this year and has had three back surgeries. What causes low blood platelets? Can anything be done to raise platelet count? Ideal blood pressure is categorized as normal. Increased blood pressure may be categorized as elevated, stage 1 or stage 2 depending on the specific numbers.

Final Thoughts

A diagnosis of high blood pressure is usually based on the average of two or more readings taken on separate visits. Hypertension can be diagnosed by performing careful and repeated measures of the blood pressure. Blood pressure categories include normal blood pressure, defined as a systolic pressure less than 120, and a diastolic pressure less than 80. Elevated blood pressure is defined as a systolic pressure 120 to 129, and a diastolic pressure less than 80. Overview A ferritin test measures the amount of ferritin in the blood. Ferritin is a blood protein that contains iron.

This test can be used to find out how much iron the body stores. If a ferritin test shows that the blood ferritin level is low, it means the body's iron stores are low. This is a condition called iron deficiency. Iron deficiency can cause anemia.