Pathogenesis and management of chronic idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura: An update

Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is a disorder characterized by pl atelet destruction caused by an antiplatelet autoantibody that results in p latelet phagocytosis via the reticuloendothelial system. The condition will become chronic in 10% to 20% of children with ITP and almost all adult ITP patients. The expert panel established in 1994 by the American Society of Hematology extensively reviewed ITP-related articles before 1995 and publis hed practice guidelines. This publication is of great help in regard to res earch and management of ITP. However, the pathogenesis of chronic ITP has n ot been fully elucidated, and its management is primarily empirical. This r eview focuses mainly on the articles published after 1995, including some e xperiences in China. (C) 2000 The Japanese Society of Hematology.