Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an autoimmune blood disorder characterized by abnormally low platelet counts, reducing the blood’s ability to clot and increasing the risk of bleeding. In many patients, pathogenic antibodies target platelet surface proteins, including glycoprotein IIb/IIIa (GPIIb/IIIa), causing the immune system to destroy platelets and potentially impair their production in the bone marrow. This can lead to easy bruising, small red or purple spots on the skin, recurrent nosebleeds, bleeding gums, and heavy menstrual bleeding. In severe cases, ITP can cause life-threatening internal bleeding, including intracranial hemorrhage. Current therapies aim to maintain safe platelet counts through immunosuppression, broad B-cell depletion, stimulation of platelet production, or splenectomy. While these approaches can control the disease, responses vary, and some patients experience relapses or require prolonged treatment, highlighting the need for precise therapies that selectively address the underlying autoimmune response.
