Final answer:
Abnormal platelet distribution can be associated with either thrombocytopenia, leading to excessive bleeding, or thrombocytosis, resulting in potential excessive clot formation or thrombosis. Both conditions arise from imbalances in platelet counts which can have serious health consequences.
Step-by-step explanation:
Abnormal platelet distribution is typically associated with two contrasting conditions: thrombocytopenia and thrombocytosis. Thrombocytopenia is the condition in which there is an insufficient number of platelets leading to a reduced ability of blood to form clots, this can result in excessive bleeding. Conversely, thrombocytosis is characterized by an excessive number of platelets, which increases the risk of unwanted and excessive clot formation, known as thrombosis. The formation of a thrombus, an aggregation of platelets, erythrocytes, and WBCs within a mass of fibrin strands, can either partially or totally block blood flow. This is a concern in conditions such as deep vein thrombosis, hypercoagulation states like thrombophilia, and other risk factors including prolonged periods of immobility, certain diseases, pregnancy, and obesity. In the event of thrombocytosis, the excessive platelet production may result from increased levels of thrombopoietin or issues with megakaryocytes, whereas a reduction in platelet number in thrombocytopenia could be due to inadequate production or increased destruction of platelets.