What is ITP Blood Disorder?
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Identification
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ITP is a disorder caused by a decrease in the number of platelets, which help control blood flow. Patients with an abnormal platelet decrease may show signs of purple-colored skin bruises and internal bleeding.
Features
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A typical platelet count ranges from 150,000 to 450,000; ITP patients demonstrate blood counts under 100,000. Nosebleeds are another common symptom of individuals experiencing ITP.
Treatments
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Physician treatment may be based on diagnostic testing, medical history and patient preference. Treatments can include spleen removal, steroids or infection control.
Preventing Disease Complications
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ITP patients can monitor abnormal bleeding, such as nosebleeds, and wear protective head gear. Monitoring medications such as aspirin is advised because patients are prone to excessive bleeding.
Warning
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This bleeding disorder can occur in both children and adults. Children are more likely to develop the acute (short-term) type, while adults develop a chronic (long-term) form of ITP.
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