Successful treatment of a steroid-resistant form of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura in pregnancy with high doses of intravenous immunoglobulins

Acta Haematol. 1987;77(2):107-10. doi: 10.1159/000205968.

Abstract

Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) during pregnancy may cause serious bleeding in the mother and fetus. Therapy with high-dose intravenous immunoglobulins has caused an immediate and predictable rise in platelet count in both adults and children with chronic or acute ITP. We report our experience in managing a woman near term in pregnancy. The patient demonstrated a rapid increase in platelet count, delivered without excessive bleeding and had a normal child with normal platelet count. Intravenous immunoglobulins may offer a new and safe way to control maternal and fetal platelet counts during pregnancy, delivery and neonatal period.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Blood Platelets / drug effects
  • Drug Resistance
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immunization, Passive*
  • Immunoglobulin G / administration & dosage*
  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous
  • Injections, Intravenous
  • Platelet Count
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications, Hematologic / drug therapy*
  • Pregnancy Complications, Hematologic / etiology
  • Purpura, Thrombocytopenic / drug therapy*
  • Purpura, Thrombocytopenic / etiology
  • Steroids / therapeutic use*

Substances

  • Immunoglobulin G
  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous
  • Steroids