The pathophysiology, diagnosis and management of autoimmune thrombocytopenia

Significant advances have been made in the understanding of organ specific autoimmune disorders and parallels can now be drawn with autoimmune thrombocytopenia (AITP). In AITP, the platelet surface glycoprotein target antigen epitopes are now well characterised and reliable autoantibody assays are available. Most patients can be treated effectively, and in refractory patients, experimental treatment has given new insights into the pathogenesis of the disorder. This article reviews the immunological aspects of AITP and suggests a diagnostic and therapeutic strategy in responsive and refractory patients.