The lower the platelet count, the greater the risk of bleeding. Because platelets help stop bleeding, the symptoms of ITP are related to increased bleeding. However, each child may experience symptoms differently. A bruise is blood under the skin. Children with ITP may have large bruises from no known trauma.
Bruises can appear at the joints of elbows and knees just from movement.
Any head trauma that occurs when there are not enough platelets to stop the bleeding can be life threatening. The symptoms of ITP may resemble other blood disorders or medical problems. Always consult your child's physician for a diagnosis. Sometimes, a bone marrow aspiration is performed to look at the production of platelets and to rule out any abnormal cells the marrow may be producing that could lower platelet counts. Not all children with ITP require treatment.