Hello Dr. Rynne, I recently had a CBC and was told my platelet count which had been at 100 for eight years had dropped to 64. I have very pale skin and over the last couple of months have acquired tiny red dots on my lower legs. My primary care doctor wants me to see a hematologist, and I am waiting for an appointment. In the meantime, I have been trying to find information on these symptoms and am hoping you can help. Thank you very much.
Hello and welcome to Chat Doctor, Pale skin is a sign of anemia or low hemoglobin. Anemia can be caused due to decreased production of red blood cells, increased blood loss or increased red blood cell destruction. The cause for the anemia has to be found out, and relevant investigations include hemoglobin level estimation, red blood cell counts, red cell indices and peripheral blood smear examination. Development of red dots over lower legs can be due to low platelet counts. Low platelets can lead to petechial hemorrhages which appear as small red spots over the skin and mucus membranes. Thus, you need to consult a hematologist for both anemia and low platelet counts. Thanks and take care Chat Doctor.