Diseases
thrombocytopenic purpura
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura is a blood disorder characterized by an abnormal decrease in the number of platelets in the blood. A decrease in platelets can result in easy bruising, bleeding gums, and internal bleeding. ITP may be acute and resolve in less than 6 months, or chronic and last longer than 6 months.
Symptoms
- the purple color of the skin after blood has "leaked" under it
- tiny red dots under the skin that are a result of very small bleeds.
- nosebleeds
- bleeding in the mouth and/or in and around the gums
- heavy menstrual periods
Causes
- medications (including over-the-counter medications) can cause an allergy that cross-reacts with platelets.
- infections, typically viral infections, including the viruses that cause chicken pox, hepatitis c, and aids.
- immune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus
Risk factors
- pregnancy
- more common among young women
Diagnosis
- complete blood count (cbc).
- additional blood and urine tests.
- careful review of your medications
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is thrombocytopenic purpura?
Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura is a blood disorder characterized by an abnormal decrease in the number of platelets in the blood. A decrease in platelets can result in easy bruising, bleeding gums, and internal bleeding. ITP may be acute and resolve in less than 6 months, or chronic and last longer than 6 months.
What are the symptoms of thrombocytopenic purpura?
the purple color of the skin after blood has "leaked" under it, tiny red dots under the skin that are a result of very small bleeds., nosebleeds, bleeding in the mouth and/or in and around the gums, heavy menstrual periods
What causes thrombocytopenic purpura?
medications (including over-the-counter medications) can cause an allergy that cross-reacts with platelets.; infections, typically viral infections, including the viruses that cause chicken pox, hepatitis c, and aids.; immune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus
Which medicines are used for thrombocytopenic purpura?
prednisone
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