Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP)
Not yet clinically reviewed
This protocol was migrated from the earlier Pharmapedia and Ward Guide apps for educational use. Follow your hospital's own policies and consult seniors when in doubt.
Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is a disorder that can lead to easy or excessive bruising and bleeding. The bleeding results from unusually low levels of platelets the cells that help blood clot. Formerly known as idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, ITP can cause purple bruises, as well as tiny reddish-purple dots that look like a rash.
Symptoms
- Easy or excessive bruising
- Superficial bleeding into the skin that appears as pinpoint-sized reddish-purple spots (petechiae) that look like a rash, usually on the lower legs
- Bleeding from the gums or nose
- Blood in urine or stools
- Unusually heavy menstrual flow
Diagnosis
Blood tests can check the levels of platelets. Rarely, adults might need a bone marrow exam to rule out other problems and examining the cause of bleeding.
Treatment: Medication
- Oral corticosteroids: prednisone 0.5-2mg/kg/day and dexamethasone 40mg/day for 4 days
- Injection of immune globulin I/V 0.4g/kg daily for 2-5days
- Rituximab 375mg/m2helps increase platelet count by reducing the immune system response that's damaging platelets.
Surgery
If condition is severe or persists despite initial drug treatment, doctor may suggest surgery to remove your spleen. This quickly eliminates the main source of platelet destruction in your body and improves your platelet count.