Clinical haematology · UKMLA & AKT

Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)

A free high-yield preview for the UKMLA Applied Knowledge Test. Below are the key points to recognise idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (itp) — the full SA Note notes add investigations, management, complications and 10 practice questions.

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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