Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura

ITP, the abbreviation for immune thrombocytopenic purpura, is a disorder in which the body's defense system reduces the number of platelets, the cells that help stop bleeding. With fewer platelets available, the tendency to bleed or to bruise easily increases.

How it presents: Bruises that appear without a blow to explain them, small red dots on the skin, bleeding from the gums or the nose and, in general, a greater tendency to bleed with minimal stimuli.

When to seek care? An evaluation is advisable in the presence of unexplained bruises, frequent or repeated bleeding, or pinpoint spots on the skin that have no clear cause.

Which specialist treats it? The hematologist evaluates platelet and clotting disorders; in minors the pediatrician also takes part. If you notice signs of easy bleeding, the prudent thing is for these professionals to review the picture and guide the follow-up.