Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP): Tests
Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is a bleeding disorder. In ITP, the blood doesn’t clot as it should. This is due to a low number of blood cell fragments called platelets or thrombocytes.
Part of: Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP)
About Immune Thrombocytopenia Tests
Your doctor will diagnose immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) based on your medical history, a physical exam, and test results.
Your doctor will want to make sure that your low platelet count isn’t due to another condition (such as an infection) or medicines you’re taking (such as chemotherapy medicines or aspirin).
Medical History
Your doctor may ask about:
Your signs and symptoms of bleeding and any other signs or symptoms you’re having Whether you have illnesses that could lower your platelet count or cause bleeding Medicines or any over-the-counter supplements or remedies you take that could cause bleeding or lower your platelet countPhysical Exam
During a physical exam, your doctor will look for signs of bleeding and infection. For example, your doctor may look for purplish areas on the skin or mucous membranes and pinpoint red spots on the skin. These are signs of bleeding under the skin… Read more about Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP): Tests