Treatment of immune-mediated thrombocytopenia purpura with concurrent intravenous immunoglobulin and platelet transfusion: A retrospective review of 40 patients

We performed a retrospective review of patients with immune-mediated thrombocytopenia (ITP) treated with prolonged infusions of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) (1 g/kg by continuous infusion over 24 hr) and concurrent platelets (1 pheresis unit every 8 hr), to determine the response rate of this therapy. Patient inclusion criteria included clinically significant thrombocytopenia, with either active bleeding, need for anticoagulation, or a needed surgical procedure. The average pretreatment platelet count was 10,000/mu l, which increased to 55,000/mu l after 24 hr and 69,000/mu l after 48 hr. After 24 hr, 62.7% of patients had a platelet count > 50,000/mu l. Bleeding was controlled initially in all patients, and those requiring a procedure experienced no bleeding complications. Over half of the patients (52.5%) required additional treatments for recurrent or refractory ITP. Six of the 21 patients requiring retreatment (29%) received IVIg and platelets again in a similar fashion, with similar results. No side effects of the combined treatment were noted. There is limited literature on the optimal dose and schedule for administration of IVIg and platelets. Our approach for administration of IVIg and platelets concurrently was associated with minimal side effects, resolution of bleeding, ability to safely undergo procedures, and rapid restoration of adequate platelet counts.