Thrombocytopenic purpura, also known as immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), is a medical condition characterized by a low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) and the presence of purplish or red spots on the skin and mucous membranes, known as purpura. It is an autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the blood clotting process.

To understand thrombocytopenic purpura in detail, let’s break down its key components:

1. Platelets (Thrombocytes): Platelets are small, colorless cell fragments in the blood that play a crucial role in clotting. They help in sealing wounds and preventing excessive bleeding by forming clots at the site of injury.
2. Autoimmune Disorder: In thrombocytopenic purpura, the immune system mistakenly targets and destroys platelets as if they were foreign invaders. This results in a decreased number of functional platelets in the bloodstream.
3. Thrombocytopenia: The hallmark of thrombocytopenic purpura is a low platelet count in the blood. A normal platelet count typically ranges from 150,000 to 450,000 platelets per microliter of blood. In ITP, the platelet count can drop significantly, leading to an increased risk of bleeding.
4. Purpura: Purpura refers to the presence of purple or red spots on the skin and mucous membranes. These spots are caused by small amounts of bleeding under the skin due to weakened blood vessels and a reduced ability of the blood to clot. This symptom is often what prompts individuals with ITP to seek medical attention.

Causes and Pathophysiology:

The exact cause of ITP is not fully understood, but it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder. In a healthy immune system, immune cells such as B cells and T cells help identify and destroy foreign substances like bacteria or viruses. However, in ITP, these cells mistakenly recognize platelets as foreign and produce antibodies against them. The immune system’s response leads to the destruction of platelets, both in the bloodstream and within the spleen.

Types of ITP:

1. Acute ITP: This form usually occurs in children and is often triggered by viral infections. It usually resolves on its own within a few months.
2. Chronic ITP: This form is more common in adults and can last for years. It may be idiopathic (meaning the cause is unknown) or secondary to other conditions like autoimmune diseases.

Symptoms:

• Purpura: As mentioned earlier, purplish or red spots on the skin and mucous membranes are a characteristic symptom of ITP.
• Petechiae: These are small, pinpoint-sized red or purple spots that may appear on the skin, often resembling a rash. They are caused by tiny bleeding under the skin.
• Easy Bruising: Due to the reduced platelet count, even minor trauma can result in bruising.
• Nosebleeds and Gum Bleeding: Spontaneous bleeding from the nose and gums can occur.
• Menstrual Irregularities: Women with ITP may experience heavy or prolonged menstrual periods due to the decreased platelet count.
• Internal Bleeding: In severe cases, internal bleeding may occur, leading to symptoms like blood in urine or stool, or even bleeding in the brain (intracranial hemorrhage).

Diagnosis:

Diagnosing ITP involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests, including a complete blood count (CBC) to assess platelet levels. Bone marrow biopsy may also be performed in some cases to rule out other potential causes of thrombocytopenia.

Treatment:

Treatment for ITP depends on the severity of the condition and the presence of bleeding symptoms. It can include:

• Observation: In mild cases, especially in children, observation without treatment may be an option, as ITP can resolve on its own.
• Corticosteroids: These medications suppress the immune system’s response and can help increase platelet counts.
• Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG): IVIG is a blood product that contains a high concentration of antibodies and can help raise platelet counts.
• Platelet Transfusions: In severe bleeding cases, platelet transfusions may be administered to quickly raise platelet levels.
• Medications to Boost Platelet Production: Drugs like romiplostim and eltrombopag can stimulate the bone marrow to produce more platelets.
• Splenectomy: Surgical removal of the spleen (splenectomy) might be considered in cases of chronic ITP that do not respond to other treatments. The spleen is a site of platelet destruction, so removing it can increase platelet counts.