Recurrent Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura Associated With Splenosis: A Case Report

Immune thrombocytopenic purpura is a bleeding disorder in which the immune system develops antibodies against its cells, such as platelets, causing purpura and hemorrhagic episodes. The problem can be primary or idiopathic and secondary to other conditions, such as certain drugs and autoimmune conditions like lupus erythematosus. In children, spontaneous remissions are not uncommon, but they are rare in adults, in whom, after a period of medical treatment, splenectomy is necessary. Recurrence after surgery requires extensive workup, and although not quite common, remnants of the spleen or splenules should be suspected as one of the causes. The present case report relates to a recurrent disease episode several years after surgery, its management, and evolution after reoperation.