Delayed immune-mediated thrombocytopenia after re-exposure to abciximab therapy

Abciximab is a potent antiplatelet agent that is increasingly being used to prevent ischemic complications of percutaneous coronary revascularization. Thrombocytopenia, including acute profound thrombocytopenia, has been reported to occur with this agent, but usually within 1 to 2 days of exposure. We report the case of a woman aged 68 years who presented with profound delayed thrombocytopenia 9 days after a second exposure to abciximab. She was treated successfully with intravenous immunoglobulin with complete resolution of the thrombocytopenia and no subsequent recurrences.