Neonatal thrombocytopenic purpura: case reports and methodological approach

Six emblematic cases of neonatal thrombocytopenic purpura (NTP) due to different etiologic factors are described. Various methods for the detection of platelet and leukocyte antibodies are considered: platelet suspension and lymphocyte immunofluorescence tests (PSIFT and LIFT), solid-phase platelet antibody detection test (Capture-P), immune-enzymatic assay on platelet suspension (ELISA) and on solid-phase platelets (Capture-P-ELISA), lymphocytotoxicity (Lctx). Furthermore, chloroquine stripping of HLA antigens and monoclonal antibody (MoAb) treatment of target platelets specific antigens are described. The technical characteristics and advantages of each method are discussed. The authors stress that a step-by-step investigation employing an integrated system that includes various methods can correctly supply the pathogenetic information necessary for the physician to undertake the best therapeutical approach.