Autoimmune thrombocytopenia

Autoimmune thrombocytopenia, also commonly known as immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) or immune thrombocytopenic purpura, is a condition where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys its own platelets. Platelets are tiny blood cells that help your blood clot when you have a cut or injury. When platelet counts drop too low, the body has trouble stopping bleeding, even from minor bumps or cuts. People with this condition may notice easy bruising, small red or purple dots on the skin called petechiae, or bleeding from the gums and nose. Women may experience heavier-than-normal menstrual periods. In most cases, the condition develops without a clear cause, though it can sometimes be triggered by a viral infection, medication, or another underlying autoimmune disease. Treatment depends on how low the platelet count is and whether the person is having significant bleeding. Many people with mild cases need only careful monitoring. Others may need medications to suppress the immune system or boost platelet production. Most children with ITP recover fully on their own, while adults are more likely to have a long-term form of the disease. With proper care, most people with autoimmune thrombocytopenia can live full, active lives.

Data sourced from FDA regulatory filings and ClinicalTrials.gov. Updated periodically.

Bring these to your next appointment

• Q1.What is my current platelet count, and at what level would you recommend starting treatment?,What are the risks and benefits of the treatment options you are recommending for me?,How often will I need blood tests to monitor my platelet count?,Are there activities or medications I should avoid to reduce my bleeding risk?,What symptoms should prompt me to go to the emergency room immediately?,Is my ITP likely to be short-term or long-term, and what factors affect that?,Should I be tested for any underlying conditions that might be causing my low platelets?

Common questions about Autoimmune thrombocytopenia

Related conditions

Other rare diseases commonly researched alongside Autoimmune thrombocytopenia.

• Antiphospholipid syndrome→
• Evans syndrome→