Skip Navigation

What is Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP)?

  • 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.

    While ITP often arises after a viral infection, for the majority of cases the cause is unknown. Luckily, acute ITP, the most common form, usually goes away on its own over the course of weeks or months, sometimes without treatment. Chronic ITP appears most frequently in adults, but occasionally is seen in children. This form of ITP is more serious, lasting for years and typically requiring specialized follow-up care.

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

    Children and young adults with immune thrombocytopenia 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 Dana-Farber/Boston Children's website, including answers to:

    • How is ITP diagnosed in children?
    • What are ITP treatments?
    • What is the latest research on ITP?
      For information on ITP written specifically for children and teens, visit our ITP Kids pages.