[The future expected therapeutic approaches for ITP patients]

Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura(ITP) is autoimmune disorder characterized by production of anti-platelet autoantibodies. The first recommended therapy is an administration of corticosteroid. For the patients refractory to steroid, splenectomy is recommended. In a portion of patients these standard therapies are not effective, therefore, effective new therapies are looked for. In this paper following new therapeutic approaches are presented; 1) eradication of Helicobacter pylori, 2) administration of thrombopoietin, 3) administration of anti-CD40L monoclonal antibodies, 4) administration of anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies, 5) splenic irradiation. These treatment options are now tried in a small group of refractory patients except for eradication of pylori. We hope these new therapeutics will be introduced in clinical practice in near future.