Abstract
Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is a common hematologic disorder. Its pathogenesis involves both accelerated platelet destruction and impaired platelet production. First-line agents are usually effective initially but do not provide long-term responses. Splenectomy remains an effective long-term therapy, as does rituximab (Rituxan) in a subset of patients. Thrombopoietic agents offer a new alternative, although their place in the overall management of ITP remains uncertain.
MeSH terms
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Adrenal Cortex Hormones / therapeutic use
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Anti-Inflammatory Agents / therapeutic use
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Antibodies, Monoclonal, Murine-Derived / therapeutic use
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Humans
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Immunologic Factors / therapeutic use
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Purpura, Thrombocytopenic, Idiopathic / diagnosis
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Purpura, Thrombocytopenic, Idiopathic / etiology
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Purpura, Thrombocytopenic, Idiopathic / therapy*
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Receptors, Thrombopoietin / agonists
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Rituximab
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Splenectomy
Substances
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Adrenal Cortex Hormones
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Anti-Inflammatory Agents
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Antibodies, Monoclonal, Murine-Derived
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Immunologic Factors
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Receptors, Thrombopoietin
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Rituximab