ITP and liver disease

Dear Ask The Doctor: I have an aunt recently diagnosed with ITP, now we were told that she needs a liver transplant and her kidneys are failing. Her sister died three years ago from liver failure. Their mother also died from this as well as their aunt (mother's sister). All three were moderate to heavy drinkers but the older aunt never touched alcohol. What genetic disease could be contributing to this? I understand that the alcohol exacerbated the condition but there has to be something else going on. Thank you!

Dear Colleen: Some cases of Immune thrombocytopaenia purpura (ITP) are associated with a preceding viral infection, such as infection of the liver with hepatitis C virus (HCV). However this is unlikely to be the cause in your aunts case. There are many genetic liver diseases and it is impossible to know what genetic disease is responsible in this case. I would advise discussing the potential diagnoses with your aunts physician, and if there is genetic screening available for close family members.