Causes And Risk Factors For Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura

Gender

Gender is widely thought to be a risk factor for idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, and it has been estimated adult females are two to three times more likely than men to be affected. A study has demonstrated childhood ITP appears more frequently in males.

At least seven percent of pregnant women experience decreased levels of platelets. It typically does not affect the baby, but doctors have to be mindful that conditions such as HELLP syndrome and preeclampsia might be causing the low platelet count. Platelet levels usually return to normal following the baby’s birth. In some cases, a baby born to a woman with ITP will have low platelets in their blood. However, this can be treated. If an individual's platelet count is extremely low, the doctor might give them a transfusion.

Get the details on how ITP and viral infections are related next.