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Immunotherapy of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura and Autoimmune Neutropenia
Author(s) -
Wordell Cindy J.
Publication year - 1987
Publication title -
pharmacotherapy: the journal of human pharmacology and drug therapy
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.227
H-Index - 109
eISSN - 1875-9114
pISSN - 0277-0008
DOI - 10.1002/j.1875-9114.1987.tb03513.x
Subject(s) - medicine , splenectomy , thrombocytopenic purpura , immunology , neutropenia , autoimmune thrombocytopenia , immunotherapy , autoantibody , autoimmune disease , antibody , autoimmune hemolytic anemia , immune system , chemotherapy , spleen
Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is a disorder characterized by a low platelet count and purpura. Identification of an antiplatelet antibody suggests that this is an autoimmune disease. Corticosteroids and splenectomy have been the major therapies for many years. High‐dose intravenous immune globulin (IV‐IgG) has been very successful in the management of ITP and has recently received FDA approval for this condition. It was also successful when administered to a few patients with autoimmune neutropenia. The exact mechanism of action of IV‐IgG in autoimmune disorders is poorly understood. Currently, high‐dose IV‐IgG has a definite place in the management of ITP. Its role in therapy includes emergency treatment, preoperative preparation, the postponement of splenectomy in young children, and treatment of ITP during pregnancy.