A 3-year-old child presents with bruising on the legs and trunk and a petechial rash. The mother also reports frequent nosebleeds. Lab tests reveal a decreased platelet count. The most likely diagnosis is:
A) idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura.
B) leukemia.
C) thalassemia.
D) hemophilia.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms and lab results are consistent with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), a disease in which the body's immune system attacks and destroys platelets. This can lead to easy bruising and bleeding because platelets are necessary for blood clotting. Leukemia may also cause a decreased platelet count and bruising, but the petechial rash is not as common. Thalassemia and hemophilia do not typically present with a decreased platelet count and petechial rash.

A 3-Year-Old Child Presents with Bruising on the Legs and Trunk