Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by isolated thrombocytopenia caused by increased platelet destruction and impaired platelet production. It commonly presents as purpura and bruising in children and has two clinical forms - an acute self-limiting form in children and a chronic form in adults. Treatment involves corticosteroids, IVIG, thrombopoietin receptor agonists, rituximab or splenectomy depending on severity and response to initial therapies.