What is the blood component of choice for a patient experiencing prolonged bleeding time with a platelet count of 20 x 10^3/uL?

For a patient experiencing prolonged bleeding time in conjunction with a significantly low platelet count (20 x 10^3/uL), the blood component of choice is platelets. A platelet count under 20 x 10^3/uL indicates a critical shortage of platelets, which are essential for normal hemostasis (the process that prevents and stops bleeding). When the platelet levels are this low, the risk of spontaneous bleeding increases dramatically, making it crucial to restore adequate platelet levels promptly.

Platelets function primarily to form clots by aggregating at the site of vascular injury, and without enough platelets, even minor injuries can result in prolonged bleeding. Administering platelet transfusions directly addresses the underlying issue, effectively increasing the platelet count and correcting the prolonged bleeding time.

Other options such as Cryoprecipitated AHF, Fresh Frozen Plasma, and Prothrombin Complex are indicated for different conditions. Cryoprecipitate is primarily used for fibrinogen deficiencies, and FFP is used for various coagulation factor deficiencies, while Prothrombin Complex is used mainly for reversal of anticoagulation or specific factor deficiencies. These components do not directly improve platelet counts, and thus would not be appropriate for addressing low platelet-induced bleeding