Contact Us Facebook

Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP)

Also known as Immune Thrombocytopenia

Overview

Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) is an autoimmune platelet disorder in which the body mistakenly attacks and destroys its own platelets that help stop bleeding. When platelet levels drop, people with ITP bruise easily and may bleed more than expected. ITP can be short‑term or long‑term, and while some people have very mild symptoms, others may experience more significant bleeding risks.

Causes

The exact cause of ITP is not always known. However, several triggers and associations are recognized:

A recent viral or bacterial infection

may precede the onset, especially in children.

Autoimmune conditions

such as lupus can be associated with ITP.

Medications

toxins, and occasionally pregnancy may contribute.

In adults

ITP often develops without a clear trigger and may become chronic.

ITP is caused by the immune system making antibodies that attack platelets, leading to increased destruction and sometimes reduced platelet production.

Signs & Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending on how low the platelet count is and may include:

  • Easy bruising or purple skin patches (purpura)
  • Petechiae, tiny reddish‑purple spots caused by bleeding under the skin, often on the legs or abdomen
  • Bleeding from the gums or nose
  • Blood in urine or stool
  • Heavier menstrual bleeding
  • Fatigue or feeling unusually tired
  • Rarely, severe internal bleeding when platelet levels are extremely low (<10,000)

Some people, especially children, may have no symptoms at all.

How We Diagnose It

There is no single test that confirms ITP. Your provider will:

Review your medical history

Perform a physical exam

looking for bruising or bleeding

Order blood tests

including a complete blood count (CBC) to measure platelet levels

Order a blood smear or bone marrow biopsy

(occasionally) if the diagnosis is unclear or if treatment is not working

ITP is diagnosed by ruling out other causes of low platelets.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on symptoms, platelet levels, and whether bleeding is present. Some cases, especially in children, improve without treatment.

Common treatments include:

  • Steroids (corticosteroids)—often the first treatment to raise platelet counts.
  • Immune globulin (IVIG)—used for rapid platelet increase or during active bleeding.
  • Thrombopoietin receptor agonists (romiplostim, eltrombopag, avatrombopag)—help the bone marrow make more platelets.
  • Rituximab—reduces the immune system activity attacking platelets.
  • Other treatments (e.g., fostamatinib) for chronic ITP not responding to earlier therapies.

Splenectomy (spleen removal): May be recommended when medications don’t work. Removing the spleen reduces platelet destruction, but not all patients benefit.

  • Avoid medications that increase bleeding risk (e.g., NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or aspirin).
  • Regular platelet monitoring

Living With ITP

ITP can be acute (short‑term) or chronic (lasting more than 12 months). Many adults experience a long‑lasting course but can still lead full, active lives with proper monitoring and treatment. Children often recover completely within weeks or months.

Regular follow‑up with your care team helps detect flares early. Report any new bleeding symptoms right away.

When To See Your Provider

Seek immediate medical care if you experience:

Blood droplets

Bleeding that doesn’t stop with pressure

Blood in urine, stool, or vomit

Headache

Sudden severe headache or neurological symptoms

Extremely heavy menstrual bleeding

Why Choose Illinois CancerCare

A blood disorder diagnosis can feel overwhelming. At Illinois CancerCare, we are committed to ensuring you never have to face it alone. Providing advanced, comprehensive hematology and oncology care for our patients is at the heart of everything we do. Since 1977, our specialists have focused on individualized, evidence-based treatment plans, access to world-class clinical trials, and thorough follow-up. With Illinois CancerCare, you can move forward with confidence knowing trusted expertise and compassionate support are always close to home.‑based treatment plans, access to world‑class clinical trials, and thorough follow‑up.

Sources & Patient Friendly References

Information sourced from Mayo Clinic, Johns Hopkins Medicine, and NIH (National Institute of Health).