Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) Flashcards
What is ITP.
It is a coagulation disorder.
What is ITP due to.
Due to antibodies against the antigens on the platelet surface resulting in it’s removal via with reticuloendothelial system.
Who does ITP affect. (2)
Middle aged women.
Children.
What are the symptoms of ITP. (6)
Recurrent epistaxis. Ecchymosis. Easy bruising. Purpura. Gingival bleeding. Menorrhagia.
What is seen on a FBC in a patient with ITP.
Thrombocytopenia is the only abnormality found.
What are the three mechanisms of thrombocytopenia. (3)
Reduced platelet production in the bone marrow.
Excessive peripheral destruction of platelets.
Sequestration in an enlarged spleen.
What is the mechanism of ITP.
Due to the immune destruction of platelets.
At what age do children develop ITP.
Most commonly in the age group 2-6years.
What are the features of ITP in children. (3)
Acute onset.
Mucocutaneous bleeding.
There may be a history of recent viral infection.
What two viral infections may lead to ITP in children. (2)
Varicella zoster.
Measles.
How common is bleeding in children with ITP. (2)
Severe bleeding is common.
Life-threatening haemorrhage is rare.
Is a bone marrow examination often done in children with ITP.
Bone marrow examination is not usually performed unless treatment becomes necessary on clinical grounds.
How does ITP presentation in adults differ to presentation in children.
ITP presentation in adults is usually less acute than in children.
What is ITP associated with. (4)
Other autoimmune disorders, such as SLE, thyroid disease and autoimmune haemolytic anaemia (Evans’ syndrome).
CLL.
Solid tumours.
After infection with viruses such as HIV.
What percentage of adults with ITP have platelet autoantibodies.
60-70%.
