More awareness needed on ITP, autoimmune blood disorder

CHENNAI: Health experts emphasize on the need to create awareness about the condition- an autoimmune blood disorder that occurs when the platelet count becomes too low. Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) occurs with an incidence rate of 1.6 to 3.9 per cent in 1,00,000 patients, which increases with age and has a slight female preponderance. It is a chronic disease, in which patients must take lifelong treatment. Hence, experts stress upon its appropriate management.

Dr Srikanth Muralikrishanan, Senior Consultant, Haemato-Oncology & Haematology, Apollo Hospital says, “In ITP, the immune system destroys platelets, leading to lowering of platelets which results in bruising and bleeding. Most of the time, there is no reason why it happens. That is why, it is called as Idopethic Thrombocytopenic purpura, but sometimes there are some triggers such as fever, viral infection, auto immune disorders, surgery and vaccination. In children, it is usually a mild illness and settles spontaneously. In adults, it requires some treatment in acute situation, which might settle down or might go into chronic state.”

Dr Shrinath Kshirsagar, Consultant, Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT),Global Hospital, says, “Regular blood count evaluation helps in keeping a track of the condition and helps us to prescribe the best course of treatment. The treatment course depends on an individual’s symptoms.”

“The lower the platelet count, the higher is the risk of bleeding. Patients may also experience symptoms differently- purple bruises (purpura), small red dots that look like a rash, heavy menstrual periods, fatigue and nosebleeds. Also, some of the symptoms of this condition might look like other medical problems and hence, it is beneficial to consult a healthcare provider,” he said. The treatment for ITP is usually through oral medication. In severe cases, platelet transfusion and intravenous immune globulin (IVIG) are prescribed.