Download PDF
Semin Thromb Hemost 1995; 21(3): 305-312
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-1000651
Copyright © 1995 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.

Immune Thrombocytopenia in Children: The Immune Character of Destructive Thrombocytopenia and the Treatment of Bleeding

Paul Imbach
  • From the Children's Hospital Aarau and Basle, University of Basle, Basle, Switzerland.
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
06 February 2008 (online)

  PDF Download  Permissions and Reprints

Abstract

It is now recognized that different forms of destructive thrombocytopenia due to antibody binding to platelets exist, which can be differentiated by sensitive new assays. Thus, the name has been changed from idiopathic to immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). The immune character of ITP has been further supported by the success of treatment with human antibody concentrate-immunoglobulin treatment. During different studies of ITP in children, it has been recognized that only patients with bleeding in addition to a platelet count less than 20 × 109/L need to be treated. The various forms of treatment are reviewed.

Key words:

Immune thrombocytopenic purpura - platelets - autoantibodies - bleeding