In the treatment of ITP, which therapy is used to rapidly increase the platelet count?

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Multiple Choice

In the treatment of ITP, which therapy is used to rapidly increase the platelet count?

In ITP, the immune system marks platelets for destruction, especially by splenic macrophages. IV gamma globulin raises the platelet count quickly by saturating Fc receptors on these macrophages, which reduces the phagocytosis of antibody-coated platelets. The effect is rapid, often seen within 24 to 48 hours, making this approach the preferred option when a swift rise in platelets is needed (for bleeding control or before procedures). High-dose corticosteroids can also raise platelets but generally act more slowly and variably in the acute setting. Platelet transfusion provides platelets temporarily but doesn’t produce a sustained rise because the underlying autoantibody-mediated destruction continues. Splenectomy offers a longer-term solution but is not used for rapid correction.

In ITP, the immune system marks platelets for destruction, especially by splenic macrophages. IV gamma globulin raises the platelet count quickly by saturating Fc receptors on these macrophages, which reduces the phagocytosis of antibody-coated platelets. The effect is rapid, often seen within 24 to 48 hours, making this approach the preferred option when a swift rise in platelets is needed (for bleeding control or before procedures).

High-dose corticosteroids can also raise platelets but generally act more slowly and variably in the acute setting. Platelet transfusion provides platelets temporarily but doesn’t produce a sustained rise because the underlying autoantibody-mediated destruction continues. Splenectomy offers a longer-term solution but is not used for rapid correction.

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