Acute immune (idiopathic) thrombocytopenic purpura in childhood

Acute immune (idiopathic) thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) in childhood is most commonly a self-limiting condition with unexplained onset and resolution. In cases of severe thrombocytopenia, or situations where the condition persists beyond 6 months, treatment may be required to minimize the danger of life-threatening intracranial hemorrhage. Nonsurgical treatment options include corticosteroids, intravenous gammaglobulin (i.v.Ig), or anti-D. Specific indications, benefits, and limitations of these modalities are discussed, with recommendations for future directions in therapy.