However, ITP, also called idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, is an autoimmune disorder that may only require monitoring.
Learn more about the differences between ITP and TTP.
see to it to see a healthcare provider for adiagnosis, so you might receive the proper treatment.
andylid / Getty Images
This may cause blood to leak from small blood vessels.
In ITP, the immune system inappropriately produces antibodies against platelets, triggering the immune system to destroy them.
ITP sometimes occurs following a viral infection, especially in children.
Without enough of this enzyme, excessive clotting of the blood can occur.
It is rare for both ITP and TTP to occur together, but is possible.
It is most likely to occur in people who are HIV positive or those with other immunosuppressive disorders.
ITP vs. TTP Complications
Prompt treatment is required to prevent life-threatening complications from TTP.
Life-threatening complications from ITP are more rare, but they can occur.
Although uncommon, life threatening complications can occur from ITP.
Uncontrolled or excessive bleeding is one of the main complications of ITP.
Catastrophic bleeding, such as bleeding in the brain or from major organs, may be experienced.
Severe, life-threatening complications may occur if TTP is not treated promptly.
The clots in the blood vessels may prevent adequate blood flow to the organs, resulting in organ failure.
This can potentially happen to any affected organ, such as the kidneys or liver.
Sometimes only observation is needed.
ITP does not require anytreatmentif platelet counts remain adequate and no significant symptoms occur.
ITP may also resolve on its own.
The goal of treatment, when required, is to stop or prevent bleeding and improve platelet counts.
The initial treatment is typically steroid medication.
Steroids work by suppressing the immune system and stopping the destruction of platelets.
During plasma exchange, blood from the person with TTP is removed and filtered through a special machine.
The other blood products are returned to the person, and healthy plasma from a donor is transfused.
These treatments are typically given in combination with plasma exchange.
Adzynma (recombinant ADAMTS13) works by replacing low levels of the ADAMTS13 enzyme.
Adzynma is indicated to prevent TTP symptoms or treat symptoms when experiencing an event.
Summary
Both ITP and TTP are disorders that affect platelets.
National Organization for Rare Disorders.Immune thrombocytopenia.
National Organization for Rare Disorders.Thrombtic thrombocytopenic purpura.
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.
Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP).
2011;12(3):215-220. doi:10.1177/175114371101200308
