Blood disorders in children /

Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purprua (ITP)

01 In Brief

Idiopathic Thrombocytopenia Purpura or ITP is an autoimmune disorder that causes the body to destroy its platelets. Idiopathic refers to no known cause; thrombocytopenia refers to decreased platelets in the blood which are required to control bleeding; while purpura refers to purple bruises that occur in the skin as a result. In most children it occurs following a viral illness and the platelet count returns to normal within 6 to 8 weeks. A chronic form of the condition can occur in some children with symptoms lasting at least six months, or even many years in some cases. In most cases however, treatment is not necessary although there are a range of treatment options if necessary. Lifestyle changes are necessary particularly in young children to prevent injuries and bleeding.

02 What Others Say

Royal Childrens Hospital Melbourne 

RCH parents info fact sheet on ITP

Cincinati Childrens Hospital 

Fact sheet on ITP

03 I Want To Know More

  • More detailed fact sheet from the Children's Hospital Boston

 Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura

04 Clinicians Tools and Resources

  • Starship Children's Hospital: Clinical Guidelines

Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura 

The information published here has been reviewed by Flourish Paediatrics and represents the available published literature at the time of review.
The information is not intended to take the place of medical advice.
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Last updated: 19/02/2011 by Dr Elizabeth Hallam