Immune thrombocytopenic perpura (ITP)

Immune thrombocytopenic perpura (ITP)

What is Immune thrombocytopenic perpura (ITP)?

Immune thrombocytopenic perpura (ITP) is a rare autoimmune disorder that causes low platelet levels and abnormal bleeding. It can occur in children and adults.

Symptoms

• Easy bruising
• Bleeding gums
• Bleeding into the skin that looks like a rash (petechiae)
• Bleeding into the skin that's larger than petechiae (purpura)
• Blood in urine or stools
• Heavy menstrual flow

Causes

• An immune system error that may be triggered by viral infections
• Associated with pregnancy
• Other immune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus

Treatment

• Ongoing monitoring of platelet levels
• Medications such as corticosteroids, IV immunoglobulin (IVIG), or IV Rho immunoglobulin (RhIG)
• Surgical removal of the spleen (splenectomy) in severe cases

Types of ITP

• Acute ITP: The most common type of ITP, which mainly affects younger children
• Chronic ITP: Lasts 6 months or longer and mostly affects adults