Final answer:
A decreased platelet count is called thrombocytopenia, which can lead to excessive bleeding due to an inability of blood to clot properly.
Step-by-step explanation:
The condition characterized by a decreased platelet count is known as thrombocytopenia. Platelets, also called thrombocytes, are crucial for proper blood clotting.
A normal platelet count ranges from about 150,000 to 400,000 platelets per microliter of blood. In thrombocytopenia, the number is significantly lower, which can lead to an inability of the blood to form clots properly and may result in excessive bleeding from even minor wounds.
In contrast, thrombocytosis is the condition of having too many platelets, which can cause excessive and potentially harmful clot formation, known as thrombosis.