Causes
There is a disorder called immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) characterized by abnormally low blood platelets. The condition occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys platelets, which are essential for normal blood clotting. The exact cause of ITP is often unknown, but it can be triggered by:
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Hepatitis, HIV, and Helicobacter pylori are viral infections.
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ITP can be caused by certain medications, including antibiotics.
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Conditions such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis are autoimmune disorders.
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The risk of autoimmune diseases may be increased by a family history of the disease.
Symptoms
Symptoms of ITP range from mild to severe and are primarily caused by a low platelet count.
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Small purple or red spots can appear on the skin called petechiae if you are prone to easy or excessive bruising.
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Minor injuries such as cuts, dental procedures, or other minor injuries can cause prolonged bleeding.
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Symptoms of spontaneous bleeding include bleeding from the gums or nose without apparent cause.
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Menstrual bleeding that is unusually heavy in women.
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As a result of the body's inability to transport oxygen and nutrients, fatigue occurs.
Diagnosis
To confirm the autoimmune nature of ITP and rule out other causes of low platelet counts, several steps are required:
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A medical history and physical examination are conducted in order to identify symptoms and possible underlying causes.
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A complete blood count (CBC) measures platelet levels and other blood components.
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To rule out other conditions, peripheral blood smears are examined under a microscope.
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A bone marrow examination may be needed in some cases to check for bone marrow disorders.
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Tests to rule out infections, autoimmune diseases, and other potential causes.
Treatment
There are several treatment options available for ITP, depending on the severity of the condition and the patient's symptoms.
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Observation without active treatment is recommended in mild cases with few symptoms.
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Medications:
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Prednisone is an example of a corticosteroid that suppresses the immune system and increases platelet count.
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A rapid increase in platelet count can be achieved with intravenous immune globulin (IVIG).
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Thrombopoietin Receptor Agonists: Drugs such as romiplostim and eltrombopag that stimulate the production of platelets.
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Immune cell-targeting antibody therapy called rituximab.
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The removal of the spleen may be considered in chronic or severe cases.
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In the case of severe bleeding, platelet transfusions and emergency medications may be required.
Prevention
As the exact cause of ITP is often unknown, there are no specific measures to prevent it. However, managing risk factors and early detection can help reduce complications:
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Certain medications may increase bleeding risk or trigger ITP.
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Check-ups regularly: Especially if you have a family history of autoimmune diseases.
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The condition can be managed by maintaining a healthy lifestyle and avoiding activities that increase the risk of injury.
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ITP can be prevented by prompt treatment of infections.
Conclusion
Due to the immune system attacking its own cells, immune thrombocytopenia causes low platelet counts. Understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and seeking appropriate diagnosis and treatment are crucial to managing ITP effectively. Although it is not always possible to prevent ITP, early detection and proper management can significantly improve outcomes.
