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Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by the immune system attacking and destroying platelets, leading to a low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) and increased risk of bleeding.

ITP is caused by antibody-mediated destruction of platelets primarily by the spleen and reduction in platelet production. Autoantibodies bind to platelet antigens, leading to their destruction by the immune system.

Patients with ITP often present with symptoms of bleeding such as petechiae, purpura, nosebleeds, and in severe cases, internal bleeding or menorrhagia in women.

Diagnosis is typically made through a combination of patient history, physical examination, blood tests showing isolated thrombocytopenia, and exclusion of other causes of low platelet counts.

First-line treatments include corticosteroids to reduce immune system activity and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) to block the destruction of platelets.

For patients not responding to first-line treatments, options include splenectomy to remove the primary site of platelet destruction, and immune suppressants like rituximab.

Emerging therapies include thrombopoietin receptor agonists that increase platelet production, and new immunomodulatory drugs targeting specific pathways in the immune system.