Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP)

Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP) is a condition where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys its own platelets, which are cells that help blood clot. This leads to a low platelet count, causing problems with bleeding and bruising. People with ITP may notice easy bruising, small red or purple spots on the skin called petechiae, or prolonged bleeding from cuts. The condition affects the blood and immune system and can vary from mild to severe. It can occur in both children and adults and sometimes follows infections or other immune triggers.

Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by isolated thrombocytopenia due to increased peripheral platelet destruction and impaired platelet production. The pathogenesis involves autoantibodies, primarily IgG, targeting platelet surface glycoproteins such as GPIIb/IIIa, leading to their clearance by splenic macrophages. It is often idiopathic but can be secondary to infections, medications, or systemic autoimmune diseases. Clinically, it presents with mucocutaneous bleeding, petechiae, and purpura without other causes of thrombocytopenia. Bone marrow examination typically shows normal or increased megakaryocytes, reflecting compensatory platelet production. The major clinical significance lies in the risk of severe bleeding, including intracranial hemorrhage.