Childhood Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP)

What Is Childhood Immune Thrombocytopenia?

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), previously called immune thrombocytopenic purpura or idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, is an autoimmune disorder that occurs when the body attacks its own platelets and destroys them too quickly. Platelets are a part of blood that helps control bleeding.

More than 80 percent of children treated for ITP recover on their own in days, weeks, or months. Recurrence of ITP is uncommon, but it can occur up to several years after the initial episode and may be associated with another viral infection.

Childhood ITP Treatment at Dana-Farber/Boston Children's

Children and young adults ITP are treated by our team of experts through the Blood Disorders Center at Dana-Farber/Boston Children's, where children and teens receive care from some of the world's most experienced hematologists with deep experience in the conditions they treat.

Find in-depth information on ITP on the Boston Children's website, including answers to:

  • What is ITP?
  • What are the symptoms of ITP?
  • What causes ITP?
  • How is ITP diagnosed?
  • What are the treatment options for ITP?
  • What is the long-term outlook for children with ITP?