Immune thrombocytopenia in adults: An update

ABSTRACT

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) in adults is a chronic disease resulting from increased platelet destruction and impaired platelet production. Splenectomy remains the most effective and durable treatment in cases that are refractory to first-line therapy, but its use has declined because of the availability of alternate medical therapy, the associated risk of infection, and concern for surgeryrelated complications. Rituximab (Rituxan) may be an effective alternative but carries the risk of immunosuppression.