Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is a blood disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks and destroys platelets—the tiny cells that form blood clots. Because the body destroys platelets, a person with ITP does not have a sufficient amount to slow down or stop bleeding. Therefore, when a person does experience bleeding it is often prolonged and heavier than normal.
Some ITP cases are asymptomatic (showing no symptoms). However, in other cases multiple signs and symptoms may begin to crop up. The severity of each symptom depends on how low the platelet count is. For example, significantly low counts cause more extreme, but rare, symptoms. Here is a closer look at the signs and symptoms of this autoimmune condition.
Petechiae
A characteristic of ITP are red or purple spots on the skin, usually the lower legs. These spots are known as petechiae and are caused by bleeding internal bleeding. Petechiae will appear suddenly in affected children following an infection. Petechiae can also be found in the mouth on mucous membranes.
Purpuric Rash
A purpuric rash is made up of purple and red bruises that are slightly larger than petechiae. Like petechiae, purpura is also caused bleeding under the skin. The rash is sometimes the only and first sign for those affected with the disease.
Bruising
Bruises are caused by broken or damaged blood vessels that leak blood into the surrounding tissues. Externally, the bruise looks like a purplish lump on the skin. It is common for people with ITP to experience spontaneous bruising. The frequency of bruising is due to the body’s inability to clot blood, which allows more bleeding into the tissues than normal bruising.
Spontaneous Bleeding
The main signs of abnormal, spontaneous bleeding include frequent and persistent bleeding from the nose or gums, such as after dental work. It also possible for bleeding to occur in the digestive and urinary tract, which can lead to blood in the urine or stool.
Menorrhagia
Although heavy periods may be common from time to time, excessive and prolonged menstruation is not. If a woman experiences a significant change or increase in menstruation, they should see a doctor because this is a main sign of ITP.
Intracerebral Hemorrhage
In rare cases, due to extremely low platelet counts, bleeding inside the skull or on the brain can occur. This type of hemorrhage is life-threatening and needs immediate medical attention. Here are some warning signs: sudden weakness, tingling, or paralysis in the limbs or face, severe headache, a change in vision, balance, swallowing, and language skills, nausea or vomiting, memory problems, or lack of consciousness.
