In some viral infections, number of platelets are reduced quickly. Pla

In some viral infections, number of platelets are reduced quickly. Platelets are essential because :

they along with red blood cells carry oxygen.
platelets are important to carry food to cells through blood.
platelets remove carbon dioxide from blood.
platelets have a role in blood clotting.
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UPSC CAPF – 2023
Platelets, or thrombocytes, are small, irregular-shaped cell fragments found in blood. Their main function is to stop bleeding (hemostasis) by clumping together to form a plug at the site of injury and by releasing factors that promote blood clotting. In viral infections like dengue fever, a decrease in platelet count (thrombocytopenia) is common and can lead to increased risk of bleeding, highlighting their essential role in blood clotting.
– Platelets are involved in hemostasis (stopping bleeding).
– Platelets facilitate blood clotting.
– Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) increases bleeding risk.
Red blood cells are responsible for oxygen transport. White blood cells are part of the immune system. Plasma carries dissolved substances like nutrients, hormones, and waste products throughout the body. Carbon dioxide is transported in blood primarily as bicarbonate ions, bound to hemoglobin, or dissolved in plasma. Platelets are specifically critical for initiating and supporting the coagulation cascade, forming a blood clot.