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Hamostaseologie 2019; 39(03): 272-278
DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1676129
Review Article
Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Thrombopoietin Receptor Agonist Use for Immune Thrombocytopaenia

Cindy E. Neunert
1   Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, United States
› Author Affiliations
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Publication History

30 June 2018

12 October 2018

Publication Date:
15 January 2019 (online)

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Abstract

Management of patients with corticosteroid-refractory immune thrombocytopaenia (ITP) possesses a significant challenge to practitioners. Until recently, options included splenectomy and immunosuppression. With improved knowledge of both thrombopoiesis and the pathophysiology of ITP, novel drug development with thrombopoietin-receptor agonists (TPO-RAs) was undertaken. Two agents, romiplostim and eltrombopag, are currently approved for use in patients with chronic ITP. Both agents have been shown to increase the platelet count, improve health-related quality of life and reduce bleeding symptoms and concomitant medication use. This review will highlight the discovery of TPO-RA agents, appraise key clinical trials and explore future directions.

Keywords

immune thrombocytopenia - thrombopoietin-receptor agonists - second-line therapy
 

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