IMMUNE THROMBOCYTOPENIC PURPURA: A LITERATURE REVIEW ON PATHOPHYSIOLOGY, DIAGNOSIS, AND TREATMENT

Abstract

Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by the premature destruction of platelets and the inhibition of their production, resulting in thrombocytopenia. The pathogenesis of ITP involves the production of autoantibodies that bind to platelets, marking them for destruction in the reticuloendothelial system, particularly in the spleen. The disease presents in acute form, more common in children, or chronic form, affecting mainly adults, especially women of childbearing age. The diagnosis of ITP is clinical, made by excluding other causes of thrombocytopenia. Initial treatment includes corticosteroids, while intravenous immunoglobulin and immunosuppressive agents are used in more severe or refractory cases. This article reviews the clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic characteristics of ITP, discussing management approaches with a focus on the differences between its acute and chronic forms, as well as future treatment prospects.