What's New in Chronic ITP
What's new in this update?
Since I last updated this website in June of 2002, I have changed several of the sections, which are marked as "Updated". Of particular interest are the following topics:
Importance of Helicobacter pylori Infection in ITP.
Helicobacter pylori is the bacteria which has been shown to cause peptic ulcer disease (stomach ulcers) and to be associated with evidence of immune stimulation.
Early studies from Italy and Japan reported an increased incidence of H. pylori infection in ITP patients and persistent partial or complete remissions in many patients upon its treatment. However, a prospective study in the United States showed no increased incidence of H. pylori in ITP patients and no platelet response following its treatment. These discordant results suggest that H. pylori infections differ between regions. At present, no evidence-based recommendations can be made about H. pylori testing and/or treatment in ITP patients in the United States. Patients from Japan, Italy and perhaps other countries should be tested and treated for this infection.
Experimental Treatment with Thrombopoietin Agonists in Chronic ITP.
There are new clinical trials involving the use of thrombopoietin agonists in the treatment of ITP. Preliminary results suggest that these agents, which are small molecules that stimulate platelet production, may offer another therapeutic approach for ITP patients. For information, click here: Experimental Therapy.
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