title: HIV-related thrombocytopenia.
abstract: HIV-related chronic ITP is caused by an accelerated platelet destruction due to adsorption of circulating immune complexes and to specific anti-platelet antibodies, but perhaps also by a defective thrombopoiesis resulting from invasion of the megakaryocytes by the retrovirus. Treatment is needed when platelet numbers drop beneath 20.10(9)/L or when severe bleeding symptoms occur. Steroids, commercially available immunoglobulins for IV use, AZT and anti-Rh immunoglobulins can be administered, although relapses are frequent after withdrawal of the drugs. Recurrences after splenectomy are far less common, but the progression towards AIDS might be accelerated.
authors.affiliation: Dienst Inwendige Geneeskunde, Afdeling Bloedings- en Vaatziekten, U.Z. Gasthuisberg, K.U. Leuven, België.
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Blockmans
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Vermylen
mesh_terms: D000936:Antigen-Antibody Complex; D001323:Autoantibodies; D001792:Blood Platelets / Q000276:immunology / Q000382:microbiology; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D006678:HIV; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000150:complications*; D006801:Humans; D011379:Prognosis; D013921:Thrombocytopenia / Q000150:complications* / Q000276:immunology / Q000628:therapy
chemical_list: D000936:Antigen-Antibody Complex; D001323:Autoantibodies