[Frequently recurring cyclic megakaryocytopenic-thrombopenic purpura]

An unusual case of acquired frequently remitting megakaryocytopenic-thrombocytopenic purpura in a 54 years old man is reported. The patient could be followed up anamnestically for 11 years. Regularly megakaryocytopenic-thrombocytopenic periods were followed by complete remissions. Platelet survival was normal in thrombocytopenic and in remission phases. No immune mechanism could be detected. The exceptional position of this disorder within the inhomogenous group of intermittent thrombocytopenic purpuras is discussed, and the common criteria with three other published cases are pointed out.