Doctors who treat ITP are called hematologists. Hematologists are healthcare providers who diagnose, manage, and treat blood disorders and cancers that affect the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic system. They can offer treatments to control symptoms and prevent problems from getting worse. In some cases, a primary care physician or pediatrician may help manage the condition, especially if symptoms are mild. Sometimes, if the immune system is involved, an immunologist – who focuses on immune system problems – might help, too. 

ITP happens when the body’s immune system attacks its own platelets. Platelets are cells that help our blood clot. This attack makes it harder for our blood to stop bleeding. The exact reason why the immune system does this is not always clear, but some things can trigger it, including infections like the flu, some vaccines, or medications might cause ITP. Autoimmune diseases, where the immune system attacks healthy cells, can also be a cause. For people living with ITP, stress or being sick can make symptoms worse. 

The symptoms of ITP can vary from person to person, but common signs include: 

• Bruising easily, even from small bumps 

• Small red or purple dots on the skin, called petechiae 

• Bleeding from the nose or gums more often than usual 

• Having heavy or long-lasting menstrual periods 

• Feeling very tired despite getting enough sleep  

In more serious cases, people with ITP can have internal bleeding, which can be dangerous and may need immediate medical care. 

ITP is a rare autoimmune disorder, and treatment depends on how serious the condition is. Some people with mild ITP may not need treatment, but doctors will watch them closely. For others, treatments focus on raising the number of platelets in the blood and stopping the immune system from attacking them. Doctors might prescribe steroids or immune globulin therapy to help the body make more platelets. In some cases, doctors may suggest removing the spleen, an organ that helps filter blood. If ITP isn’t treated, it can cause serious bleeding, which can be life-threatening in some cases. 

ITP is not life-threatening for most patients. Many people with ITP live a normal life expectancy, especially if they receive the right treatment and reach a stable platelet count. ITP usually doesn’t get worse with age. However, older adults may have more frequent flare-ups or complications like increased bleeding. With treatment and regular check-ups, most people with ITP can manage their symptoms and live long, healthy lives. 

There are various reasons why you may want to see a specialist, such as: 

• Your primary care provider recommends it. 

• Your condition requires expert knowledge and specialized care. 

• Your symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment. 

• You need specialized testing or procedures. 

• You want a second opinion.  

It’s important to see a provider with expertise in your specific condition. Each provider profile in MediFind’s doctor database includes information on which conditions they treat, years of experience, research contributions, languages spoken, insurance plans accepted, and more.  

You can find an Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) doctor in any of the 10 largest U.S. cities by clicking below:

Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) doctor near New York, NY
Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) doctor near Los Angeles, CA
Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) doctor near Chicago, IL
Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) doctor near Houston, TX
Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) doctor near Phoenix, AZ
Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) doctor near Philadelphia, PA
Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) doctor near Atlanta, GA
Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) doctor near Boston, MA
Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) doctor near Dallas, TX
Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) doctor near San Jose, CA

MediFind’s rankings are based on a variety of data sources, such as the number of articles a doctor has published in medical journals, participation in clinical trials and industry conferences, as well as the number of patients that provider sees for a given condition. Note that MediFind’s provider database is not based on user reviews, and providers do not pay to be included in the database. 

Most profiles in MediFind’s doctor database include a list of insurance plans accepted by that provider. However, it’s a good idea to contact the provider’s office to make sure they still accept your insurance, then doublecheck by contacting your insurance plan to confirm they’re in network. 

MediFind offers direct scheduling for certain providers using the “Request Appointment” button on that provider’s profile. If the schedule option is not available for a provider, tap the red “Show Phone Number” button on their profile to get their contact information. If you prefer to find providers who offer online scheduling, select “Schedules online” under the “Availability” category of the filter feature on the left side of the Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) doctor search results page. 

Second opinions are an opportunity to confirm a diagnosis and its root cause, learn about alternative treatment options, or simply gain peace of mind. Many people, especially those with serious diagnoses, get second opinions so they can understand all their options and make informed decisions, so don’t hesitate to get one if you have any doubts or need more information or clarification regarding your care. Note that some insurance plans require second opinions, while others don’t cover second opinions, so be sure to confirm with your insurance provider first.   

Prepare for your appointment by gathering the following items: 

• Copies of medical records (dating back at least one year) 

• Your medical history, including illnesses, medical conditions, surgeries, and other doctors you see 

• Family history of disease 

• List of current prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal remedies or supplements including names and doses 

• Allergies to medications, food, latex, insects, etc.  

• List of questions and concerns 

• Your insurance card 

You might also contact the provider’s office to see if they offer transportation or childcare services or if you’re allowed to bring a loved one for support or to take notes during your visit. 

Here are some sample questions: 

• Can you explain in simple terms what this condition is and how it’s treated? 

• What symptoms or side effects should I watch for? 

• What tests will be involved, and when can I expect results? 

• Are there other specialists I need to see? 

• What’s the best way to reach you if I have follow-up questions? 

MediFind’s Clinical Trials tool asks you a series of questions to help you narrow down your search by health condition, age, gender, location, how far you’re willing to travel, and more. Each question you answer filters down the number of trials until you find the ones that are most relevant to you. 

MediFind’s Latest Advances tool features summaries of recent articles published in medical journals. We use cutting-edge technology to scour medical publication databases for the latest research advancements on any given condition, then we simplify this information in a way that’s useful and easy to understand. 

Look for the filter feature on the left side of the Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) doctor search results page. Select “Female” or “Male” under the “Gender” category to search for female or male providers exclusively. If the “Any” option is selected, it will pull results for both male and female providers. 

Look for the filter feature on the left-side of the Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) doctor search results page. Select “Offers telehealth visits” under the Availability category to search for providers who offer virtual appointments (video calls). 

Reviewed on: 11/11/24  

By: MediFind Medical Staff 

Read more about our Content Policy.