Double lung cancer combined with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura. A case report

A 68-year-old woman was admitted because of two abnormal lung shadows, which later proved to be differentiated double cancer. Preoperative hematology tests showed a low platelet count and the result of bone marrow aspiration was compatible with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). A normal platelet count was once obtained by preoperative percutaneous partial splenic arterial embolization (PSE). However, as there was a tendency for the platelet count to decrease just before surgery, one shot high-dose immunoglobulin (Ig) was administered, which is thought to have a short term effect. The operation was performed successfully. After resection of lung cancer, her platelet count was maintained at around 15x10(4) mm3 without taking drugs for ITP. These findings suggest a relationship between lung cancer and ITP.