It attacks them with an antibody as it would bacteria. This is done in the spleen or liver. ITP can present itself with small purple spots called petechiae in the mouth and legs, nose bleeds, and bleeding gums during normal dental care. Some people develop bruises on their arms and legs with no provocation. It is often accompanied by fatigue and sometimes depression.
Children have a much greater chance of recovering with little or no intervention.
While most cases of ITP are controlled, it can be fatal in a small percentage of ITP patients. Extensive information about the nature of ITP is currently available on the web. Our aim in this section is to summarize or enhance rather than duplicate what others have defined . Below are other sites with general ITP information. If you have another disease in addition to ITP, check the Self-Help Clearinghouse for great support listings.