Congenital platelet function defects are problems with the blood cells that are needed for blood clotting. Congenital means present from birth.

Platelets are cells that help the blood clot. Congenital platelet function defects are bleeding disorders that involve abnormal platelet function despite normal platelet counts.

There is usually a family history of a bleeding disorder consisting of prolonged bleeding or easy bruising.

Bernard-Soulier syndrome occurs when platelets lack a substance that sticks to the walls of blood vessels. This disorder may cause severe bleeding.

Glanzmann's thrombasthenia is a condition caused by lack of a protein required for platelet to clump together. This disorder may cause severe bleeding.

Storage pool disease is a mild defect that causes bruising. The risk factor is a family history of a bleeding disorder.

• Nosebleeds
• Bleeding during and after surgery
• Easy bruising
• Prolonged bleeding with small injuries
• Abnormal menstrual periods
• Bleeding gums

The following tests may be used to diagnose this condition:

• CBC
• Platelet aggregation test
• PT, PTT