Immune thrombocytopenic purpura in children: An update

Immune thrombocytopenic purpura, also known as Werlhof's disease, is the most common cause of thrombocytopenia in children. While the majority of childhood Immune thrombocytopenic purpura cases are benign and resolve spontaneously, a rigorous evaluation of bleeding potential using the Buchanan score remains essential. Indeed, in rare situations, the disease can progress to severe forms threatening life prognosis. The diagnosis of immune thrombocytopenic purpura relies on a combination of clinical, biological criteria, and exclusion of other causes of thrombocytopenia. Management of Immune thrombocytopenic purpura varies based on its form, severity of bleeding, and impact on the child's quality of life. For mild cases, watchful waiting may be sufficient. However, for severe forms or those with high bleeding risk, specific treatments are considered. These include intravenous immunoglobulins, corticosteroid therapy, splenectomy, immunosuppressants, and thrombopoietin analogs. In recent years, significant progress has been made in the genetics of constitutional thrombocytopenia, allowing a revision of chronic Immune thrombocytopenic purpura diagnoses by identifying inherited genetic abnormalities. The growing understanding of Immune thrombocytopenic purpura mechanisms, combined with genetic and therapeutic advances, offers promising prospects for optimizing disease management and improving the quality of life of affected children.