We took our 5 year old son in for blood work because he bruised so badly. He looked like someone beat him and he had bags under his eyes loved to take naps and was generally tired and laid around. Nothing like our 3 other children. We got his blood work back in the DR called said his platlet count was 17 and they are sending him to a childrens hospital called lebonhuer in memphis TN suggesting leukemia. We are scared have no idea what this means and what to do. Can anyone tell me anything about the number 17 and what that means to us. Please help us he is my baby(not that it would matter if he were my oldest) I am so scared and cant eat or sleep I cant think and I am sure my life would end if I lost him. Is there anything I can do?

Here is a site that can explain what the platelet count test is done for. http://my.webmd.com/hw/health_guide_atoz/hw4260.asp?lastselectedguid={5FE84E90-BC77-4056-A91C-9531713CA348}

Here is a site that explains generally what leukemia means. http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=4140 Without knowing what type your dr. suspects, it's not possible to find specific information. It sounds like he/she is still trying to diagnose your son, though. Hopefully it won't be something serious. You could try calling your dr.'s office and asking to speak with a nurse, who could provide you with some basic information.

Best wishes.