It is the diagnosis when platelets are abnormally low and other diseases that could cause low platelets have been ruled out. Usually there is the presence of antiplatelet antibodies indicating that the body has decided to consider the platelets foreign. 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 .