What is Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP)?
Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) is a blood disorder that causes low platelet levels. The low platelet levels can cause easy and excessive bleeding and bruising. ITP can be either acute or chronic.
The treatment for ITP depends on the symptoms, age of the patient, and platelet count. In some patients, ITP resolves on its own without any treatment. However, for symptomatic patients, treatment can include medications such as corticosteroids, IVIG, and others. If medication is not effective and the ITP is severe, a splenectomy may be performed. While successful in restoring platelet levels for many patients, this option permanently increases the susceptibility to infection.
Although definitive causes for Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura have not been identified, the disorder often begins following vaccination or shortly after a viral illness.
