Immune thrombocytopenia is a benign and self-limiting disorder. Data about the condition and its incidence from low-income countries is limited. This paper reviews the research about immune thrombocytopenia, comparing low- and high-income countries. Diagnosis is usually based on complete blood count and peripheral smear and, in selected cases, bone marrow aspiration. The disease has a high remission rate both in high- and low-income countries and intracranial haemorrhage is rare. The recommended treatment is simply observation of cases, especially when the platelet count is > 10 000 /mm3. If drug therapy is required, oral steroids are the most economical choice.