Description A disease that caus...
Description
A disease that causes a low number of platelets (thrombocytopenia). Platelets are essential for normal blood clotting and are made in the bone marrow. Most people have more than 150,000 platelets per microliter. Serious bleeding is usually seen when the count drops below 10,000. In ITP the body's immune system attacks and destroys the platelets. The disease can occur in children and adults and usually occurs in children after a viral infection. The disorders resolves in children but can be long lasting (chronic) in adults.
Symptoms
Pinpoint red spots under the skin (petechiae). Purplish bruises on the skin, mouth, or vaginal area (purpura). Bleeding from the nose (epistaxis), from the gums, in the urine (hematuria) or in the bowels. Large bruises (hematomas) can occur with mild trauma. Excessive vaginal bleeding during menstruation. Serious life threatening bleeding can occur after minor injuries.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be done. A complete blood cell count (CBC) will determine the number of platelets. The blood cells will be examined under a microscope. A blood test will be performed to look for antibodies against platelets. A bone marrow biopsy may also be done.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC)
Other Specific Tests: bone marrow biopsy, blood smear
Specialists:
Blood and Cancer Care (hematology and oncology), Pediatric Hematology and Oncology
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be done. A complete blood cell count (CBC) will determine the number of platelets. The blood cells will be examined under a microscope. A blood test will be performed to look for antibodies against platelets. A bone marrow biopsy may also be done.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC)
Other Specific Tests: bone marrow biopsy, blood smear
Specialists:
Blood and Cancer Care (hematology and oncology), Pediatric Hematology and Oncology
Treatment
Many patients do not need treatment because the platelet counts remain high enough to prevent any bleeding. These patients are observed closely and may need periodic transfusions if they undergo surgery. When the platelet counts become low enough to cause bleeding, different treatments are available. Medical treatment consists of steroids and intravenous immune globulin (IVIG). Surgical treatment involves the removal of the spleen (splenectomy). This leads to a rise in the number of platelets, since the spleen is the main place in the body where platelets are destroyed.