Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), also known as immune thrombocytopenia, is a condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys platelets, the tiny blood cells essential for clotting. Because platelets help stop bleeding, a low platelet count leads to a tendency to bleed more easily. The signs of ITP mainly revolve around bleeding and bruising symptoms, which can range from mild to severe depending on how low the platelet count is.
The most common and noticeable signs include:
– **Easy or excessive bruising:** People with ITP often bruise very easily, even from minor bumps or injuries that wouldn’t normally cause bruises. These bruises can appear as large, dark patches on the skin.
– **Petechiae:** These are tiny red or purple dots that appear on the skin, often on the lower legs. They are caused by small blood vessels leaking under the skin due to low platelet counts.
– **Purpura:** Larger purple or red spots on the skin that are similar to bruises but may appear without any known injury. Purpura can be widespread or localized.
– **Frequent nosebleeds:** Because the blood vessels in the nose are fragile, people with ITP may experience frequent or prolonged nosebleeds that are difficult to stop.
– **Bleeding gums:** Spontaneous bleeding from the gums, especially during brushing or flossing, is another common sign.
– **Heavy menstrual bleeding:** Women with ITP may notice their menstrual periods become heavier or last longer than usual.
– **Prolonged bleeding from cuts:** Even small cuts may bleed longer than normal because the blood does not clot properly.
In more severe cases, bleeding can occur internally, which is more dangerous. This may include:
– **Blood in urine or stool:** Indicating bleeding in the urinary or gastrointestinal tract.
– **Internal bleeding:** Rare but serious, bleeding inside the body such as in the brain can occur, which is life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.
Some people with ITP may also experience fatigue or feel generally unwell, but these are less specific symptoms.
It’s important to note that the signs can vary widely between individuals. Some people might have very low platelet counts but only mild symptoms, while others may have more severe bleeding even with moderately low platelets. In children, ITP often follows a viral infection and may resolve on its own within a few months, whereas in adults it can become a chronic condition.
Because the symptoms are mostly related to bleeding and bruising, they can sometimes be mistaken for other conditions. Therefore, doctors usually perform blood tests to check platelet levels and rule out other causes of low platelets. The presence of petechiae, purpura, and unexplained bruising, especially when combined with frequent nosebleeds or bleeding gums, should prompt evaluation for ITP.
In summary, the signs of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura center on increased bleeding and bruising tendencies, including easy bruising, tiny red spots under the skin, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, heavy menstrual bleeding, and prolonged bleeding from minor injuries. Severe cases may involve internal bleeding, which requires urgent care.
