ITP is Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura.Idiopathic means of an unknown cause. ITP is the breaking down of platelets of unknown reason. The theory behind its occurrence is the body attacking the platelets with its own antibodies. Once the antibodies are attached to the platelets, they get broken down by the spleen. Thus the number of platelets fall down and the patient can be at a higher risk for bleeding.
ITP can occur in children and it is usually self limiting. However, it can become chronic in a small percentage of patients. Adult ITP can be self limiting, however majority tend to have chronic ITP requiring treatment.
Surgery plays a role in chronic and steroid dependent disease. Splenectomy (removing the spleen) offers 60-70% remission and normalization of the platelet count. Laparoscopic splenectomy offers overall better patient outcome compared to open and a better cosmetic result as well.