A retrospective analysis of therapeutic responses to two distinct corticosteroids in 259 children with acute primary idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the responses of pediatric patients with newly-diagnosed acute primary idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) to two distinct corticosteroids. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed a cohort of 259 patients with acute ITP diagnosed between 2004 and 2008. Specifically, we compared response rates and adverse effects in patients treated with methylprednisolone or dexamethasone. RESULTS: Corticosteroids were used as the first-line treatment in all patients with an initial response rate of 96.5%. Choice of the intravenous corticosteroid for treatment did not affect the outcome of patients. The time platelet count maintained at a normal level showed no statistical difference between patients administered with methylprednisolone or dexamethasone. Only minor adverse effects were observed in both groups of patients. CONCLUSIONS: Both corticosteroids yielded similarly high response rates and minor adverse effects in ITP patients. This should be taken into account when choosing the treatment regimen for children with acute ITP.

Duke Scholars

Author Ying Xian Neurology, Neurocritical Care