Recurrence in immune thrombocytopenic purpura after splenectomy

In our study, we aimed to evaluate and discuss the recurrence rate and the causes for recurrences in splenectomy due to immune thrombocytopenic purpura. Thirty-six patients who had splenectomy due to immune thrombocytopenic purpura, enrolled in the study. Patients were evaluated for age and gender. Twenty-five patients were followed at a mean of 24 months. Recurrence rate and causes for recurrences; laparoscopic or open surgery, gender, age, preoperative and postoperative 2nd day platelet count were evaluated and discussed with the data in the literature. Thirteen patients (36.1%) were male and 23 patients (63.9%) patients were female. Mean age was 37,7. Accessory spleen was found in 4 patients (11.1%). In the follow-up of 25 patients, 5 patients (20%) had recurrence, 1 patient (4%) had partial recurrence. Although the recurrence rate was higher in woman and over 40 year old group, this was not statistically significant. The recurrence rate of patients, whose platelet count below 156.000/ml in postoperatively 2nd day, was significantly more than the patients whose platelet count above this value (p=0,024). Even under the best conditions, it is not possible to completely avoid the recurrences in surgical treatment of immune thrombocytopenic purpura. Therefore, we think it would be helpful to identify the patients with postoperatively 2nd day platelet count who have possibility for recurrence and keep those under control more often.