Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is a rare autoimmune bleeding disorder in which the immune system mistakenly destroys platelets, which are cell fragments essential for normal blood clotting. People with ITP have a low platelet count in their blood, leading to easy or excessive bruising, bleeding gums, nosebleeds, skin rash with pinpoint red spots (petechiae), and sometimes heavy menstrual bleeding in women. The condition can occur suddenly, often after a viral infection, particularly in children (acute ITP), or persist longer and become chronic, typically seen in adults. The cause of ITP is often unknown (idiopathic), but it can be triggered by infections, certain medications, vaccinations, or associated with other immune disorders like lupus. ITP affects women more than men and is more common in children than adults. Diagnosis is made by a blood test showing a low platelet count, sometimes confirmed with a bone marrow biopsy. Treatment varies depending on the severity and duration of the condition. In children, ITP often resolves without treatment. In adults, treatment may include corticosteroids, immune- suppressing drugs, infusions of immune factors, or surgery to remove the spleen. People with ITP should avoid medications that affect platelet function, like aspirin or ibuprofen. Though symptoms can be severe in some cases, many people with ITP respond well to treatment and achieve remission.