Immune Thrombocytopenia + You
Advocating for ITP patients since 2002
Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is a blood disorder that may lead to easy or excessive bruising and bleeding because of the body's low platelet count.
The first nationwide telemedicine
ITP consult service
Diagnosing ITP
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Diagnosing ITP be a confusing process because there is no diagnostic test to prove the condition.
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ITP means “anybody with low platelet count” who has no bone marrow dysfunction or spleen enlargement.
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Bone marrow biopsy is usually not needed to diagnose ITP.
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ITP is different for each patient.
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Platelet transfusions that are not successful are evidence of ITP.
Common issues with ITP care
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Most heme/onc physicians focus more on cancer than on ITP and thus only follow a handful of ITP patients.
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Each ITP patient is different, so using an algorithm and a single approach does not work well for most patients.
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Acute ITP (i.e., newly diagnosed ITP) is challenging, and inpatient health care providers have the experience and ability to treat ITP patients.
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There is a variable appreciation and understanding of the adverse effects of long-term steroid use.
Treating Acute ITP
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A patient is admitted to the hospital if platelet count is below 20,000 per mcL.
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We keep patients in the hospital until there is a trend of improvement, which sometimes means several days or more than a week in the hospital.
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The main treatment is steroid pulse, which we try to stop administering after 6 weeks.
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Rituxan is considered after 3-7 days of steroids
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IVIG is required only if there is severe bleeding or if a procedure is required.
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Romiplostim may be used in the first week
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Splenectomy is only performed as a last resort.
Treating Chronic ITP
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The patient's doctor works with them to determine which treatments and platelet count targets are best for them.
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A target platelet count above 50,000 mcL is the common standard, but platelet count above 30,000 mcL is a safe standard for most people.
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Oral medications or weekly injections may be necessary.
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Splenectomy is considered after a year of exploring other options.
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We try to avoid administering steroids.
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We try to keep patients out of the hospital.
What ITPDoctor.com offers
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We see you online from the comfort of your home.
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We see you frequently, if needed, to help guide you.
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We assess your personal situation and help you understand your condition.
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We guide you through challenging treatment decisions.
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We explain the ITP guidelines so you understand your options.
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We work with your other doctors to help them manage your case