Isolated thrombocytopenia from antiplatelet autoantibodies with no other cause identified.
Investigations
- • FBC with blood film (exclude clumping, blasts, schistocytes)
- • HIV, hepatitis C, H. pylori testing
- • Immunoglobulins and ANA
- • Bone marrow only if atypical features
Management
- • Observe if platelets >30 ×10⁹/L and no bleeding
- • Prednisolone 1 mg/kg or dexamethasone 40 mg × 4 days
- • IVIG 1 g/kg if urgent rise required
- • Second line: TPO receptor agonists, rituximab, splenectomy
Clinical pearls
- • Platelet transfusion is ineffective except in life-threatening bleeding
- • Avoid NSAIDs and antiplatelets
Related in WardRound
Educational — verify locally.
