CA
A 37-year-old member asked:
i read a blog post about itp. but i'm still not clear - what is it?
2 doctor answers • 8 doctors weighed in
Dr. Jack Mutnick answered
Allergy and Immunology 17 years experience
ITP: It is an autoimmune disorder where your body's own antibodies act the platelets. If it becomes overwhelming and the platelet numbers drop too low, bleeding can occur. If any concerns, you should see a hematologist.
5982 views
Dr. Steven Machtinger commented
Allergy and Immunology 44 years experience
Dr. Mutnick is correct. The real danger is when very low platelet counts to such low levels that bleeding in the brain leads to a stroke.
Mar 10, 2012
Dr. Steven Ginsberg answered
Hematology and Oncology 37 years experience
Low platelets: Itp stands for immune (or idiopathic) thrombocytopenic purpura, a fancy term for a low platelet count with bruising. This is a disease of the immune system, where platelets are targeted for destruction and removed by the spleen. People have varying degrees of low platelets. Treatment will depend on how low the platelets are, and how severe bruising is.
5972 views
90,000 U.S. doctors in 147 specialties are here to answer your questions or offer you advice, prescriptions, and more. Get help now:
90,000 U.S. doctors in 147 specialties are here to answer your questions or offer you advice, prescriptions, and more. Get help now:
Last updated Sep 28, 2016
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
24/7 visits
$15 per month
Disclaimer:
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.