A preterm infant (29 weeks old)has a platelet count of 85 × 10⁹/L.Is this a normal or abnormal finding?
A)Abnormal because infants have normal adult amounts of platelets after 27 weeks' gestation
B)Normal because preterm infants have decreased platelet counts as a result of abnormal birthing circumstances
C)Normal because platelet development is similar to lung development in an infant;levels depend on the age of gestation
D)Abnormal because preterm infants are subject to DIC,and that results in a decreased platelet count

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Preterm infants typically have platelet counts similar to full-term infants, and a count of 85 × 10⁹/L is considered low (thrombocytopenia). After 27 weeks' gestation, infants usually have normal adult platelet levels.

A Preterm Infant (29 Weeks Old)has a Platelet Count of 85