Disorder of Platelets - Purpura

Purpuras  are bleeding disorders characterised by petechiae  and ecchymosis which may be due to deficiency in either,  the number or quality of platelets or defect in  the vascular endothelium. 

Idiopathic  thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP): Idiopathic  thrombocytopenic purpura is the most common acquired thrombocytopenic disorder  in children.  It is characterised by a haemorrhagic condition involving  the skin, mucous membrane  and internal organs. Its greatest incidence is between three and seven years of age. Thrombocytopenia is the result of rapid platelet destruction because of presence  of platelet  antibodies. 

Etiology 

The cause of ITP is unknown.  It is said to be an autoimmune response to disease related antigens. The acute form of (ITP) is believed to be related to sensitization by viral infection such as  rubella, chicken pox or viral respiratory  infection.