Bleeding Disorders

Question 1

define ITP- immune thrombocytopenic pupura/primary immune/autoimmune

Answer 1

isolated low PLT count with normal BM and absence of other causes of thrombocytopenia.
caused by antiplatelet autoantibodies
acute or chronic, acute often in children 2wks after infection with sudden self-limiting purpura, chronic-mainly in women with fluctuating course of bleeding, menorrhagia, epistaxis and purpura-espec. dependent areas.

Question 2

if ITP diagnosed in pt due for surgery, what action should be taken?

Answer 2

surgery should be cancelled
discuss with senior and haematologist on same day
start on steroid unless C/I and pt may be fit for surgery in a few mnths time.