Cumhuriyet Medical Journal

Abstract

Objective: Childhood idiopathic thrombocytopenic
purpura (ITP) is a common disorder. The objective of this study is to review
presenting features and response to therapy of ITP treated at a single
pediatric medical center.

Method: A retrospective chart review was made for
all children (ages birth–18 years) diagnosed with ITP and treated at the Sivas
Cumhuriyet University Hospital. Files of children with ITP were retrospectively
reviewed. There were 156 children with newly diagnosed ITP and 36 children with
chronic ITP. The diagnosis of ITP was based on the exclusion of other causes of
thrombocytopenia by detailed history, physical examination, complete blood
count with blood smear and bone marrow examination.

Results: There was no significant difference in
median charges for the intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), prednisolone (IV) and
mega-dose methylprednisolone (MDMP) groups for the initial treatment of ITP. History
of antecedent infection and vaccination were present in 44.2% and 8.3% of the
patients, respectively. At diagnosis, 76.4% of the patients had a platelet
count of <10,000/μl but only 11.1% had major bleedings. Intracranial
hemorrhage was seen in two patients (1%) with a mortality rate of 0.05%. 5.1%
developed chronic ITP.

Conclusions: These data show
that mode of treatment has no effect on the clinical course and prognosis of
childhood ITP. However, the IVIG was significantly more expensive than steroids.