ORAL MANIFESTATIONS OF IMMUNE THROMBOCYTOPENIA IN CHILDREN

Immune thrombocytopenia in children is defined by a decrease in platelet counts < 100 x 109/L. The incidence of the disease varies from 1.6-6 per 100,000 children. Oral hemorrhagic manifestations (petechiae, epistaxis, gingivorrhagia, soft and hard palate hemorrhagic blisters) may be the first manifestations of the disease. Age over 1 year at diagnosis and the sudden onset of the symptom are the most important predictors of chronic disease. Oral hemorrhagic manifestations in ITP (immune thrombocytopenic purpura) in children are a warning sign in the evolution of the disease and a therapeutic challenge. Corticosteroid therapy and IV immunoglobulin, are the first therapeutic line to follow. A multidisciplinary approach is a necessity for the proper management of the child with ITP.