Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP) Treatment in India

Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP) is a rare autoimmune disorder that leads to a critically low platelet count, resulting in an increased risk of bruising and internal bleeding. In individuals with ITP, the immune system mistakenly targets and destroys healthy platelets, impairing the blood's ability to clot. This condition affects both children and adults and can be acute or chronic, depending on its duration and severity. Fortunately, India has emerged as a leading destination for ITP treatment due to its advanced healthcare infrastructure, highly experienced hematologists, and cost-effective treatment options. Treatment in India includes a combination of medications such as corticosteroids, IVIg, and thrombopoietin receptor agonists, and in some cases, surgical interventions like splenectomy. With personalized care, modern diagnostic tools, and significantly lower costs compared to Western countries, patients from across the globe seek ITP treatment in India for both quality and affordability.

What is Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP)?
Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP) is a rare autoimmune disorder characterized by a decrease in the number of platelets, which are essential for blood clotting. In patients with ITP, the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys platelets, leading to a higher risk of bleeding and bruising. This condition can occur in both adults and children, and it ranges from mild to severe cases.

Causes of ITP:
Causes: The exact cause of ITP remains unknown, but it is believed to involve the immune system mistakenly attacking platelets. Potential triggers include:

• Viral Infections: Some patients develop ITP following a viral illness.
• Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis can increase the risk.
• Medications: Certain drugs, such as antibiotics and antiepileptics, may trigger ITP in susceptible individuals.

Types of ITP:
ITP can be classified into two main types based on its duration:

• Acute ITP: Most commonly seen in children, acute ITP usually occurs suddenly after a viral infection and resolves within six months without treatment.
• Chronic ITP: This type persists for more than six months and is more common in adults. It may require ongoing treatment to manage symptoms.

Symptoms of ITP:
The symptoms of ITP vary depending on the severity of the platelet deficiency. Common symptoms include:

• Easy or excessive bruising (purpura)
• Superficial bleeding into the skin, often seen as pinpoint-sized reddish-purple spots (petechiae)
• Prolonged bleeding from cuts
• Spontaneous bleeding from the gums or nose
• Blood in urine or stools
• Unusually heavy menstrual flow in women
• In severe cases, patients may experience internal bleeding, which requires immediate medical attention.

Diagnosis of ITP:
Diagnosing ITP involves a combination of clinical evaluation and laboratory tests:

• Complete Blood Count (CBC): This test measures the number of platelets, red blood cells, and white blood cells in your blood.
• Blood Smear: A blood smear is examined under a microscope to look for abnormalities in platelets and other blood cells.
• Bone Marrow Examination: In some cases, a bone marrow biopsy may be recommended to rule out other conditions that can cause low platelet counts. Dr. Rahul Bhargava ensures a thorough and accurate diagnosis, leveraging his extensive experience in hematology.

Treatment Options for ITP:
Treatment for ITP aims to increase platelet count and reduce the risk of bleeding. The approach varies depending on the severity of the condition:

Medications:

• Corticosteroids: These are often the first line of treatment to suppress the immune system and increase platelet counts.
• Immunoglobulins (IVIg): IVIg therapy can temporarily increase platelet count in severe cases.
• Rituximab: This medication helps reduce the immune system’s attack on platelets.
• Thrombopoietin Receptor Agonists: Drugs like eltrombopag and romiplostim stimulate the bone marrow to produce more platelets.

Surgery:

• Splenectomy: In some cases, removing the spleen may be necessary if other treatments fail to increase platelet counts.
• Lifestyle and Supportive Care
• Patients may be advised to avoid contact sports and certain medications that increase the risk of bleeding.

Cost of Treatment and Stay in India:
The cost of treating Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP) in India is significantly lower compared to many Western countries. Treatment costs vary depending on the severity of the condition, the required medications, and hospital stay.

• Initial Consultation: Around USD 50–100 or INR 4,000–8,000.
• Hospital Stay: A typical stay for treatment may cost between USD 100–300 per day or INR 8,000–24,000 per day.
• Medications: The cost of drugs like corticosteroids, IVIg, and thrombopoietin receptor agonists may range from USD 100–1,000 or INR 8,000–80,000, depending on the type and duration of treatment.
• Splenectomy: If surgery is required, the cost for a splenectomy procedure can range from USD 2,000–5,000 or INR 1,50,000–4,00,000.

Overall, the total cost of treatment for ITP in India is much more affordable than in many other countries, with patients saving up to 70-80% on healthcare expenses.