How is neonatal thrombocytopenia defined?

Neonatal thrombocytopenia is defined by a platelet count that is less than 150,000/mm³. This condition can occur due to various factors, including maternal health conditions, infection, or genetic factors affecting the neonate.

A platelet count below this threshold indicates that the infant has fewer platelets than normal, which may increase the risk of bleeding or bruising. Identifying and understanding the definition of thrombocytopenia is crucial in neonatal care, as it guides the clinical team in monitoring and providing appropriate interventions to prevent complications.

In the context of the other choices, while lower thresholds indicate varying degrees of thrombocytopenia, the specific acceptance of 150,000/mm³ is recognized as the clinical cutoff for diagnosis, delineating when careful observation and potential treatment may become necessary.