idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura

1 Definition of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura

Meaning of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura: A condition in which platelets (blood cells that cause blood clots to form) are destroyed by the immune system.

A condition in which platelets (blood cells that cause blood clots to form) are destroyed by the immune system. The low platelet count causes easy bruising and bleeding, which may be seen as purple areas in the skin, mucous membranes, and outer linings of organs. Also called immune thrombocytopenic purpura and ITP.