Chronic Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura

Abstract

CHRONIC idiopathic (or immune) thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is a syndrome characterized by persistent thrombocytopenia caused by a circulating antiplatelet factor that results in platelet destruction by the reticuloendothelial system. It seems likely that the antiplatelet factor in most patients is an IgG antibody directed toward a platelet-associated antigen, although circulating immune complexes may have a role in some cases. This syndrome has been termed "autoimmune" by some authors, but this designation seems premature, since present evidence does not rule out a heterologous antigen as the causative agent. Characterization of the antigen (or antigens) will be necessary to establish true autoimmunity. . . .