Athrombocytopenic purpura

Atrombocytopenic purpura is a rare autoimmune disease characterized by a decrease in the number of platelets in the blood (thrombocytopenia) and the appearance of hemorrhages in the skin and mucous membranes.

The reasons for the development of the disease are not completely clear. It is believed that patients develop autoantibodies directed against their own platelets. These antibodies lead to premature death of platelets in the spleen.

The main symptoms are bleeding from the mucous membranes (nose, gum bleeding) and the appearance of hemorrhagic rashes on the skin. Hemorrhages in vital organs may also occur.

Diagnosis is based on detection of thrombocytopenia in a blood test and exclusion of other causes of low platelet count.

Treatment includes glucocorticoids, intravenous immunoglobulins, immunosuppressive drugs, and elimination of autoantibodies by plasmapheresis. In severe cases, splenectomy may be required.

The prognosis of the disease is generally favorable with adequate therapy, but relapses and complications are possible.