aetiology
Last reviewed 10/2022
Acute ITP is seen predominantly in children following a viral infection - most commonly varicella but also rubella, cytomegalovirus, viral hepatitis, infectious mononucleosis.
Chronic ITP is seen in mostly in adults, usually 20 to 50 years old. Women are affected three times as often as men. Other diseases such as SLE, lymphoproliferative disorders (CLL or lymphoma), or autoimmune haemolytic anaemia are often present. A preceeding viral infection is not typical.
varicella-zoster virus infections