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What is this Condition?

Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, a low platelet count that results from platelet destruction by the immune system, may be acute or chronic. The acute form usually affects children between ages 2 and 6; the chronic form mainly affects adults under age 50, especially women between ages 20 and 40.

The prognosis for the acute form is excellent; nearly 4 out of 5 people recover without treatment. The prognosis for the chronic form is good; remissions lasting weeks or years are common, especially among women.

What Causes it?

Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura may be an autoimmune disorder, because antibodies that reduce the life span of platelets have been found in nearly all persons with this disorder. The acute form usually follows a viral infection, such as German measles or chicken pox, and can follow immunization with a live virus vaccine. The chronic form is often linked to immune disorders such as lupus. It's also linked to drug reactions.

What are its Symptoms?

symptoms include red or purple spots on the skin and mucosal bleeding from the mouth, nose, or gastrointestinal tract. Hemorrhage is rare. Purpuric lesions may occur in vital organs, such as the lungs, kidneys, or brain, and may prove fatal.

The acute form usually begins suddenly and without warning, causing easy bruising, nosebleeds, and bleeding gums. The chronic form begins gradually.

How is Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura Diagnosed?

Results of lab tests, including platelet count and bleeding time, suggest the diagnosis. Anemia may be present if bleeding has occurred. Bone marrow studies may also provide important information.

How is it Treated?

The acute form may be allowed to run its course without intervention, or it may be treated with glucocorticoids or immune globulin. For the chronic form, corticosteroids may be the initial treatment of choice. People who fail to respond within 1 to 4 months or who need a high dosage are candidates for surgical removal of the spleen. The platelet count typically increases spontaneously after this procedure.

What can a Person Suffering with this Disease Do?

Avoid aspirin and Advil, which can cause bleeding.