Chronic Idiopathic Thrombocytopenia

Overview

Chronic Idiopathic Thrombocytopenia also known as chronic immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is an autoimmune disorder where there is decreased number of platelets in the blood. Platelets help in blood clotting and stop bleeding.

Signs and Symptoms

Easy bruising, Petechiae or purpura, Gum bleeding, Nose bleeding, Menorrhagia, Blood in stool or urine

Common Causes

Autoimmune destruction of platelets in the blood

Risk Factors

Age young and old, Presence of other autoimmune disorder such as rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus, Viral infections such as Epstein barr virus or Hepatitis infection, Certain medications, Women of child-bearing age

Investigation Techniques

Full blood count, Peripheral blood smear, Urinalysis, Occult blood test, Antiplatelet autoantibodies, Bone marrow test, CT scan of brain

Treatment and Prevention

Prednisolone, Intravenous immunoglobulins, Splenectomy, Platelet transfusion, Rituximab