Thrombocytopenia in newborns is primarily caused by which of the following factors?

Thrombocytopenia in newborns is primarily caused by increased destruction of platelets. In the neonatal population, several conditions can lead to a reduction in platelet count, often related to factors that increase the destruction of these blood cells. For instance, conditions such as immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), where maternal antibodies cross the placenta and target fetal platelets for destruction, exemplify a mechanism by which platelet destruction occurs.

Increased destruction of platelets can also be seen in conditions like sepsis, where activated immune responses lead to the consumption of platelets, or in cases of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), a serious condition that can complicate various neonatal illnesses.

Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for recognizing the signs of thrombocytopenia and implementing appropriate management strategies, which may involve addressing the underlying cause, monitoring the newborn's clinical status, and supporting platelet counts as needed.