Childhood immune thrombocytopenic purpura: diagnosis and management.
Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by a low circulating platelet count caused by destruction of antibody-sensitized platelets in the reticuloendothelial system. ITP can be classified as childhood versus adult, acute versus chronic, and primary versus secondary. Persistence of thrombocytopenia defines the chronic form of the disorder. Secondary causes of ITP include collagen vascular disorders, immune deficiencies, and some chronic infections. This review focuses on the diagnosis and management of children who have acute and chronic ITP. Emphasis is placed on areas of controversy and new therapies.
Blanchette
Victor
V
Division of Hematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. victor.blanchette@sickkids.ca
Bolton-Maggs
Paula
P
D002648:Child; D019468:Disease Management; D004198:Disease Susceptibility; D006801:Humans; D016553:Purpura, Thrombocytopenic, Idiopathic / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*