ITP (Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura) also known as (immune thrombocytopenia) is a rare condition that can affect children and adults. It is an immune disorder in which prevents ones blood to clot normally.
Those suffering from ITP often show symptoms such as:
bruising easily (this can either be on the skin or inside the mouth, this is called purpura)
Red or purple dots on the skin called petechnie (these often look like a rash and mainly show on the lower legs)
spontaneous nosebleeds
bleeding from the gums (from example: brushing your teeth or at the dentist)
blood in the urine or stool
abnormally heavy menstruation
prolonged bleeding from cuts or excessive bleeding from surgery
ITP means you have an unusual low level of platelets in your blood stream. Platelets are created by your body in your bone marrow. They help thicken your blood when you are bleeding by clumping together to form a clot that will seal the tear/cut in blood vessel walls and tissues. If your body is running low on platelets, it slows the blood clotting process down and you become at risk of internal or external bleeding.
So what causes this condition?
Well the term that seems to be rarely used these days “Idiopathic” (Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura) means “unknown cause”. I suppose back in the day when they first discovered this condition they didn’t really know much about it however now days they understand that the immune system plays a vital role in the development of ITP hence the term (immune thrombocytopenia).
Basically what happens is your immune system latches onto your platelets and starts seeing your platelets as a threat so it basically starts eating them. Your immune system then produces antibodies against your platelets and sends a message to your spleen to remove the platelets. To make matters worse your immune system can also interfere with your platelet production sending a message to the cells that create platelets which can further drop your platelet count.
How is it diagnosed?
A physical exam, medical questionnaire, numerous blood tests and maybe an ultrasound on your spleen or a bone marrow test. You will be tested not just for ITP but for various conditions that are relatable or showcase similar effects some of these conditions include: leukaemia, HIV, lupus, hepatitis C etc.
How is it treated?
Your specialist will review your platelet results and discuss the numerous options of treatment available to you. If your platelet count isn’t severe it may be best to go without treatment –anything you put into your body or take out of your body (eg. Spleen) has an effect therefor it’s best to take a breath and discuss your options.
Is it curable?
There are basically 2 types of this condition;
Acute (meaning short term) – this is most common for children and generally only last approx. 6 months
Chronic (meaning long term) – lasts more than six months most commonly found in adults
The good news is that this condition although can sometimes be crippling it isn’t seriously life-threatening. Some may only live with it for a short time and others may spend decades fighting.