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Ency. home > Disease > I > Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)

Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)   

Overview | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention

Alternative names:

Immune thrombocytopenic purpura; ITP

Definition:

Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (idiopathic means the exact cause of the disease is unkown) is a bleeding disorder characterized by low platelet numbers resulting from platelet destruction by the immune system.

Causes and Risks

The disease occurs when immune system cells called lymphocytes produce antibodies against platelets. The presence of antibodies on platelets leads to destruction in the spleen. Skin hemorrhage, easy bruising, abnormal menstrual bleeding, or sudden and severe loss of blood from the gastrointestinal tract may occur.

Usually, no other abnormal findings are present. In children, the disease is sometimes preceded by a viral infection and runs its course without treatment. In adults, it is usually a chronic disease and rarely follows a viral infection.

ITP affects women more frequently than men, and is more common in children than adults. There is no sex difference in children. Risk factors are unknown.

Ency. home > Disease > I > Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)

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