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α‐interferon therapy for severe chronic idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura in children
Author(s) -
Cohn Richard J.,
Schwyzer Rosemarie,
Poole Janet E.,
Hesseling Peter B.,
Naidoo Joan,
Van Heerden Corrieta
Publication year - 1993
Publication title -
american journal of hematology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.456
H-Index - 105
eISSN - 1096-8652
pISSN - 0361-8609
DOI - 10.1002/ajh.2830430403
Subject(s) - medicine , thrombocytopenic purpura , platelet , alpha interferon , gastroenterology , purpura (gastropod) , interferon alfa , immunology , interferon , pediatrics , ecology , biology
We report the use of α 2b ‐interferon in 15 children with symptomatic, chronic idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, who did not respond to standard therapy. The platelet count increased in nine children during therapy. In six children the increase lasted less than 6 weeks. An increased platelet count was seen when a higher dose was used in two of four initial nonresponders. One responder who relapsed had an identical response when retreated with the same dose. No significant side effects were documented. Further studies are required to establish the optimal dose and administration schedule of α 2b ‐interferon for use in children with chronic idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura.