– Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is a blood disorder that causes a low number of platelets in the blood.

Platelets are cells that help the blood clot and prevent bleeding.

– ITP can cause easy bruising, bleeding gums, nosebleeds, heavy periods, and internal bleeding. ITP can be acute (lasting less than 6 months) or chronic (lasting longer than 6 months). Acute ITP is more common in children and often follows a viral infection. Chronic ITP is more common in adults and may be associated with other immune disorders, infections, or cancers.

– The exact cause of ITP is not known, but it is thought to be an autoimmune condition, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the platelets.

Factors that may trigger or ITP include:

1) Medications; such as antibiotics, painkillers, or anticonvulsants.

2) Infections; such as HIV, hepatitis C, or Helicobacter pylori.

3) Pregnancy.

4) Immune disorders; such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.

5) Low-grade lymphomas or leukemias.

🔅 Diagnosis of ITP

– The diagnosis of ITP is based on ruling out other possible causes of low platelet count and bleeding. A blood test can measure the number of platelets and other blood cells. A blood smear can examine the shape and size of the platelets under a microscope. Sometimes, a bone marrow biopsy may be needed to check for any problems in the production of platelets.

🔅 Treatment of ITP

– The treatment of ITP depends on the severity of the symptoms and the risk of bleeding. Mild cases may not need any treatment, but regular monitoring of the platelet count. Severe or chronic cases may require medications, transfusions, or surgery.

Some of the treatment options are

1) Corticosteroids; such as prednisone or dexamethasone, to suppress the immune system and increase the platelet count.

2) Immune globulin; a shot of antibodies that can temporarily boost the platelet count and stop bleeding.

3) Thrombopoietin receptor agonists; such as romiplostim (Nplate), eltrombopag (Promacta), or avatrombopag (Doptelet), to stimulate the bone marrow to produce more platelets.

4) Rituximab (Rituxan); a drug that reduces the immune system response that destroys platelets.

5) Fostamatinib (Tavalisse); a newer drug that blocks an enzyme involved in platelet destruction.

6) Splenectomy; a surgery to remove the spleen, which is the main site of platelet destruction. https://boostlane.com/p/Mcartz%20Caleb/4051574/splenectomy-a-surgical-procedure-involving-the-spleen/

7) Platelet transfusion; a short-term treatment used in emergencies to increase the platelet count and stop bleeding

🔅 Prevention of ITP

– The prevention of ITP is not possible, as the cause is unknown. However, some general measures that may help reduce the risk or severity of bleeding include:

• Avoiding medications or supplements that can affect blood clotting, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or ginkgo biloba.

• Eating a healthy diet that is rich in vitamin K, which helps with blood clotting. Foods that contain vitamin K include leafy green vegetables, broccoli, cabbage, and soybeans.

• Avoiding alcohol and tobacco, which can impair blood clotting and damage the liver.

• Practicing good hygiene and getting vaccinated to prevent infections that can trigger or worsen ITP.

• Seeking medical attention promptly if any signs or symptoms of bleeding occur.