Glanzmann’s Thrombasthenia
Glanzmann's thrombasthenia is an abnormality of the platelets. While rare, it is the most common disorder involving inherited platelet dysfunction.
The platelets lack the protein needed in order for platelets to clump together when a clot is being formed, hence bleeding time is prolonged. Platelet counts are typically within normal range unless there has been prolonged bleeding. The clinical presentation of Glanzmann’s tends to involve significant mucous membrane bleeding (nose and gum bleeding). Heavy menstrual bleeding may require therapeutic intervention. Severe intracranial or gastrointestinal hemorrhage can occur spontaneously.