September is ITP Awareness Month, providing an opportunity to increase understanding of Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP), a rare autoimmune bleeding disorder that affects thousands of Australians.
The month highlights the experiences of people living with ITP and recognises the vital role of patients, families, healthcare professionals and support organisations like Spleen Australia in improving outcomes.
ITP occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys platelets, the blood cells responsible for helping blood clot. As a result, people with ITP develop thrombocytopenia, or a low platelet count, which can increase the risk of bruising and bleeding.
While the cause is often unknown, viral infections can trigger ITP, while some people may experience chronic ITP linked to other immune conditions or infections.
Understanding diagnosis and treatment
Diagnosis usually involves blood tests to measure platelet levels and rule out other conditions.
Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the condition and may include:
- Regular monitoring for mild cases
- Corticosteroids and other medicines to increase platelet counts
- Therapies that slow platelet destruction
For some people with chronic ITP, a splenectomy (surgical removal of the spleen) may be recommended when medications no longer maintain safe platelet levels.
Benefits of splenectomy can include:
- Stopping the spleen from destroying healthy platelets
- Reducing production of harmful anti-platelet antibodies
- Providing long-term remission for many patients
Join the awareness campaign
Throughout September, ITP Australia and Spleen Australia encourages Australians to learn more about ITP, share reliable information, and support those affected by this often-misunderstood condition. By working together to raise awareness, we can help improve understanding, support research, and ensure people living with ITP have access to the information and care they need.
As part of the #LightUp4ITP campaign, landmarks across Australia will light up Purple to support those living with ITP. One of those will be the Old Treasury Building in Melbourne, which will be lit in purple for this event from sunrise to sunset.