Investigating Platelet Count in Children With Chronic Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura

Abstract

Objectives: Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is an immune-mediated disease associated with immune dysregulation and autoantibody production. Numerous studies have shown that vitamin D has a protective effect against autoimmune diseases. As vitamin D deficiency has been identified in the majority of children with chronic ITP, this study evaluates the effects of vitamin D supplementation on the platelet count of such children. Methods: This was a quasi-clinical trial study and the study population consisted of children with chronic ITP who were referred to Afzalipur Hospital in Kerman City, Iran, from August 2020 to September 2021. All patients' vitamin D levels were measured and subjects with levels below 30 mg/dL were treated while the remaining children received the standard vitamin D supplementation. Subsequently, after a 3 and 9-month interval, patients’ vitamin D levels and platelet counts were assessed. Results: As a result, the mean serum vitamin D level increased significantly from 21.34±5.87 mg/dL to 34.25±5.64 mg/dL throughout the study. The mean serum platelet count was 18085.71±1292.10 µL at the start of the trial, 26628.57±1727.72 µL after 3 months, and 32114.28±1127.77 µL after 9 months, which showed a significant increase. Discussion: In conclusion, vitamin D boosts platelet count in chronic ITP patients. Thus, all children with chronic ITP should be evaluated and treated for vitamin D insufficiency.