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Chronic immune thrombocytopenic purpura

Chronic immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is an autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys its own platelets—cell fragments crucial for blood clotting. As a result, individuals may experience easy bruising, bleeding from gums or nose, or tiny red spots on the skin known as petechiae. "Chronic" indicates that the condition persists for more than 12 months. The exact cause is often unknown, but it involves immune system dysfunction. While some people have mild symptoms, others may require treatment to prevent serious bleeding. Management options include medications, therapies to boost platelet production, or, in rare cases, splenectomy.