Skip to content
WebMD: Better Information. Better Health.
Other search tools:Symptoms|Doctors|Videos

Cancer Health Center

Font Size
A
A
A

Immune Globulin - Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)

Immune globulin is sometimes used to treat idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), an immune disorder in which the body attacks the cells responsible for blood clotting (platelets), resulting in mild to severe bleeding. The cause of ITP is not known (idiopathic).

People with this disorder may have bruises or black-and-blue marks (purpura) on the skin. Internal bleeding is a more serious complication that can occur.

Some cases of ITP may go away on their own and do not require treatment. In other cases, treatment may be needed to control bleeding. Some medicines can help the body make more platelets. Steroid medicine (such as prednisone) also may be needed to suppress the immune system. Sometimes it is necessary to have platelet transfusions. In rare cases, the spleen may need to be removed.

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: February 12, 2009
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
Next Article:
webMD Video

Show or hide information about video: Is Colon Cancer Hereditary?   Is Colon Cancer Hereditary?

48x48_is_colon_cancer_hereditary.jpg

Colon cancer specialist Nancy Kemeny, MD, explains the role of heredity in colon cancer.

Watch Video: Is Colon Cancer Hereditary? (opens in a new window)

Show or hide information about video: Targeted Therapy for Lung Cancer   Targeted Therapy for Lung Cancer

Show or hide information about video: Teen Diet Linked to Breast Cancer   Teen Diet Linked to Breast Cancer

Show or hide information about video: Ovarian Cancer Drug   Ovarian Cancer Drug

Show or hide information about video: Prostate Cancer: Are There Symptoms?   Prostate Cancer: Are There Symptoms?