title: [Helicobacter pylori-induced thrombocytopenia].
abstract: Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is a multicausal disease. In the majority of cases, autoimmune antibodies against thrombocytes and other autoimmune processes play a role. However, in about 20% of cases an underlying cause can be identified. Recently, Helicobacter pylori infection was recognized as one of these underlying causes. We present two patients with ITP in whom a significant increase of thrombocytes occurred after eradication of H. pylori. In the first patient, a 75-year-old man, experimental therapy was withheld. The second patient, a 47-year-old man, never received immunosuppressive medication. H. pylori screening and eradication should be standard practice in the work up of a patient with thrombocytopenia. Despite the lack of clear pathophysiological understanding, in a minority of ITP cases there is evidence of a correlation between H. pylori infection and ITP. Tests and treatment are non-invasive, cheap and without major side-effects. In the event of a platelet response, expensive immunosuppressive treatment with significant side effects may be avoided.
authors: Hagaziekenhuis, Afd. Interne geneeskunde, Den Haag, the Netherlands. anda.samson@gmail.com
authors: A D Anda
authors: AD
authors: Samson
authors: Sandra M
authors: SM
authors: Arend
authors: Jaap Jan
authors: JJ
authors: Zwaginga
authors: Martin
authors: M
authors: Schipperus
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D016481:Helicobacter Infections / Q000150:complications* / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000276:immunology; D016480:Helicobacter pylori; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D016553:Purpura, Thrombocytopenic, Idiopathic / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000382:microbiology*