Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)

Question 1

What is Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)?

Answer 1

Refers toan autoimmune condition, characterised by a reduction in the number of circulating platelets.

It’s a type II hypersensitivity reaction.

Question 2

Who is primarily affected by Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)?

Answer 2

It primarily affects two populations:
- children, where it usually follows a viral infection and is self-limiting

• adults, where it tends to be a chronic relapsing disease.

Question 3

Causes of Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)?

Answer 3

Unknown

Associated with:
- HIV
- hepatitis C
- SLE

Question 4

Presentation of Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)?

Answer 4

Purpura (easily/excessive bruising)
Petechiae (rash of pinpoint-sized reddish-purple spots; usually on the lower legs)
Prolonged bleeding
Spontaneous bleeding from the gums or nose
Blood in urine/stools
Unusual heavy menstrual flow

Question 5

Investigations for Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)?

Answer 5

FBC
Blood film (idiopathic thrombocytopenia)
Bone marrow examination

Question 6

Management of Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)?

Answer 6

Conservative
- watch and wait

Platelet transfusion -AVOID UNLESS LIFE-THREATENING BLEEDING

Persistent cases
- steroids (immunosuppressants)

Splenectomy