What is ITP?
"Idiopathic" refers to an unknown cause. "Thrombocytocytopenic" means there aren't enough circulating platelets in the bloodstream to prevent bleeding, and "purpura" (meaning purple in Greek) refers to bruising or a rash caused by bleeding into the skin. Since this term was adopted, we have discovered that Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura, or ITP, is actually an autoimmune disease, in which a patient's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys platelets, which can result in bleeding. ITP is known commonly today as primary immune thrombocytopenia.1
Who is affected by ITP?
ITP can affect both children and adults. In children, ITP is usually a temporary condition that has a rapid onset, often occurring following a viral infection. Most children with ITP recover without any treatment within 6 months.1,2
In adults, ITP tends to be chronic, and is more common in women than in men. Diagnosing ITP can be challenging, because many other conditions, like infections, can cause a low blood platelet count. Laboratory tests used to diagnose ITP include a complete blood count and bone marrow examination.1,2
What can be done?
The goal of treatment for ITP is to raise blood platelet counts to a normal range. Treatment may include IGIV, which has been shown to increase platelet counts in patients with ITP.1,2
In a clinical trial, GAMMAKED was proven to raise platelet counts within 7 days in patients with ITP.3
This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical care. You should consult your healthcare provider for specific information on the diagnosis, treatment, and clinical care for patients with ITP.
References: 1. Provan D, Sasis R, Newland AC, et al. International consensus report on the investigation and management of primary immune thrombocytopenia. Blood. 2010;115:168-86. 2. Chapel H, Haeney SM and Snowden N. eds. Non-Malignant Haematological Diseases In: Essentials in Clinical Immunology. 6th ed. John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., West Sussex, UK: John Wiley & Sons; 2014:305-308. 3. Bussell JB, Eldor A, Kelton JG, et al. IGIV-C, a novel intravenous immunoglobulin: evaluation of safety, efficacy, mechanisms of action and impact on quality of life. Thromb Haemost 2004;91:771–8.