idiopathic thrombocytopenia

Question 1

define idiopathic thrombocytopenia

Answer 1

also called immune thrombocytopenia

immune-mediated reduction in platelet count

Question 2

hwat are antibodies directed against in idiopathic thrombocytopenia

Answer 2

glycoprotein IIb/IIIa or Ib-V-IX complex

Question 3

what type of hypersensitivity reaction is idiopathic thrombocytopenia

Answer 3

type 2 hypersensitivty reaction

Question 4

how does idiopathic thrombocytopenia differ in children compared to adults 2

Answer 4

more acute in children

may follow infection or vaccination

Question 5

features of idiopathic thrombocytopenia 3

Answer 5

brusing

petechial or purpuric rash

bleeding
-less common typically presents as epistaxis or gingival bleeding

Question 6

idiopathic thrombocytopenia investgations 3

Answer 6

FBC- should show isolated thrombocytopenia

blood film

bone marrow examination
-only if there are atypical features (lymphadenopathy/splenomegally, high/low WBC, failure to resolve/respond to treatment)

Question 7

managemnt of idiopathic thrombocytopenia 3

Answer 7

usually no treatment

advice- avoid acitivities that may result in truama

if platelet count v low:
-oral/IV corticostroids
IV immunglobulins
-platelet transfusions in emergency