Prescribing Safety Assessment (PSA) Practice Exam

What can lead to thrombocytopenia?

1. Excessive hydration

2. Viral infection

3. Excess iron intake

4. High potassium levels

The correct answer is: Viral infection

Thrombocytopenia, or a low platelet count, can arise from several conditions and factors, among which viral infections are significant culprits. Viral infections can lead to bone marrow suppression or direct invagination of platelets through mechanisms such as immune-mediated destruction or the alteration of platelet production. Specifically, viruses like dengue, HIV, and hepatitis can contribute to thrombocytopenia by affecting the bone marrow or by influencing immune responses that target platelets. In contrast, excessive hydration typically does not lead to thrombocytopenia; rather, it can dilute blood components but does not affect platelet production or lifespan. Excess iron intake generally does not cause low platelet levels unless it leads to other complications like hemochromatosis, which can indirectly affect platelet production. Similarly, high potassium levels (hyperkalemia) are related to electrical activity in the heart and muscles, rather than platelet counts. Thus, among the options, viral infection stands out as a well-established cause of thrombocytopenia.