Letter to School Nurse
Child with Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP)
Dear ______________________
My child, , has been diagnosed with Immune Thrombocytopenic
Purpura (ITP). This condition is not contagious and does not pose any risk to his/her peers.
ITP is caused by abnormally low levels of platelets, which are necessary for blood to clot properly. lIP occurs when the immune system mistakenly produces antibodies against platelets, causing their destruction. Symptoms of ITP may include bruising on skin and gums, bleeding from the mouth, gums and from the gut, red dots on the skin (petechiae), nose bleeds and blood in urine. The most serious risk to individuals with ITP is bleeding into the brain. If not effectively controlled, a low platelet count can become dangerous to my child’s health. It is critical that you notify me immediately if my child experiences any of these systems so I can contact the doctor.
My child will be receiving therapy given intravenously (into the vein) in either a doctor’s office or hospital outpatient setting. Laboratory test results may be used to determine the frequency of therapy. Therefore, I would appreciate your understanding of the situation and permit the absences from school for him/her to obtain the care he/she needs. I also appreciate your understanding in allowing my child to continue to attend school with the rest of the children and participate in activities appropriate for my child.
Please do not hesitate to call me at ________________________ if you have any questions. I will be happy to provide more information and help facilitate my childs performance in school.
Sincerely,
To Whom It May Concern:
This is to confirm that ___________________________________ (name of child) has Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP(. ITP is a bleeding disorder that requires close monitoring and periodic treatment to prevent complications.
Physician Signature Date