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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.
Children and young adults ITP are treated 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.
Learn more
Find in-depth information on ITP on the Boston Children's website, including answers to:
New Patient Appointments 617-355-8246