Anti-D immunoglobulin in the treatment of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura.

Abstract

Anti-D was evaluated in 8 RhD positive patients (6 males, 2 females) aged 2-21 years (mean 10 years) with Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP). Five patients with chronic ITP and 3 patients with acute ITP were administered Anti-D in the dosage of 50 micrograms/kg intramuscularly (IM) for 3 consecutive days. One patient of chronic ITP received two courses of Anti-D. Patients were followed up for 7 to 16 months (mean 9 months). All three cases of acute ITP had a complete response and are in remission between 3 to 12 months of follow up. Two of five cases of chronic ITP had a partial response. Rise in platelet count was observed within 72-124 hours, and duration of response varied between 10 to 15 days. None of these patients had any significant side effects of anti-D immunoglobulin therapy. Intramuscular administration of Anti-D is safe, effective and low cost alternative to IVIgG in the treatment of acute ITP.