Chronic immune thrombocytopenic purpura in hemophilia A

Chronic immune thrombocytopenic purpura resistant to steroid therapy occurred in a 30-year-old patient with severe hemophilia A. This association has recently been reported in other patients, and a possible relation to the acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) has been suggested. Although this patient had been treated with factor VIII concentrate for 4 years, the proportions of helper and suppressor T cells were normal, and there was no evidence of AIDS. An uncomplicated splenectomy gave excellent results. All patients with hemophilia should have their platelet counts monitored closely and should report any unusual pattern of bleeding.