Clinical haematology · UKMLA & AKT
Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)
A free high-yield preview for the UKMLA Applied Knowledge Test, covering how to recognise this condition. The full SA Note notes add investigations, management and complications, with practice questions on this topic.
Key high-yield points
- Type 2 hypersensitivity - defective B cells produce IgG autoantibodies against platelet glycoproteins (GPIIb/IIIa) → antibody-coated platelets destroyed by splenic macrophages → isolated thrombocytopenia
- Children: peak age 2-5 years, often preceded by viral illness 1-3 weeks prior; typically self-limiting
- Adults: most common in women aged 20-40; more chronic course; secondary causes include SLE, HIV, hepatitis C
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