Current treatment of primary immune thrombocytopenia

Primary immune thrombocytopenia, also termed immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by premature platelet destruction and impaired platelet production. Traditional treatment of ITP has predominantly consisted of immune suppression and/or modulation. However, the understanding of the immune mediated impairment of platelet production has led to the development of new treatments that target the thrombopoietin receptor, promoting formation of megakaryocytes and increasing platelet counts. Best practice for the management of ITP has not yet been established because data from comparative studies are lacking. While some disagreement might still remain among experts concerning therapy (when, who, and how should be treated), in recent years different evidence-based practice guidelines have been published to assist healthcare professionals in the diagnosis and treatment of ITP. This review describes the current treatment landscape of ITP. (C) 2013 Elsevier Espana, S.L. All rights reserved.