Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) is a hemorrhagic condition, characterized by the abnormally low levels of platelets in the blood. Although ITP is known as an idiopathic condition, it is widely believed that it is an autoimmune disorder, in which autoantibodies are produced against the platelets. Two major forms of ITP are recognized. The acute form is usually seen in children, and lasts for less than 6-months, while the chronic form, usually seen in adults is more severe, and may last for years. Characteristic symptoms include purpura (bruises), petechia (reddish-purplish spots on the skin resembling rashes), increased menstrual flow in women, bleeding from gums and nose, and blood in urine and stools. Serious complications of the condition include profuse bleeding from cuts and the risk of intracranial hemorrhage. A lot of people with this condition do not show any physical outward symptoms, and are discovered with mild thrombocytopenia, only when their blood profile is studied for some reason.
The acute form of ITP is not very serious and most children do not necessarily require any form of treatment. However, a short treatment with corticosteroids or gamma globulin may help. For chronic cases of ITP, again corticosteroids, like prednisolone, are used. Splenectomy (surgical removal of the spleen) is another option, whereby the immune system can be regulated. It is important to note, however, that these treatment options are not without their associated side effects. Long-term usage of corticosteroids carry the risk of developing osteoporosis, cataracts, and muscle wasting, while splenectomy increases the risk of infections.
The familial nature of ITP is demonstrated by the study of a number of familial cases of the condition, although their occurance is much fewer compared to sporadic cases. While the exact genetic cause is unkown, a recent study has shown the presence of an ORF allele of the FCGR2C gene among ITP patients in a proportion higher than the average.