Platelet kinetics in immune thrombocytopenic purpura and human immunodeficiency virus thrombocytopenia

Platelet kinetics studies are capable of measuring in vivo platelet survival and platelet turnover rates. These studies can be helpful in elucidating mechanisms of thrombocytopenia, particularly in complicated clinical situations. Numerous studies over the past 30 years have established the abnormalities in platelet kinetics associated with immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). It is now well known that many patients infected with HIV type-1 will develop thrombocytopenia, and that at least 10% will develop a thrombocytopenic disorder clinically indistinguishable from immune thrombocytopenic purpura. Platelet kinetics studies in this group of patients may prove of great benefit in understanding the mechanisms underlying thrombocytopenia and in making accurate diagnoses. For all patients with ITP-like disorders, these studies may also prove helpful in understanding and improving current therapies.