Linda A. Stout, MD is a pediatric hematologist at Marshall Health and is on the faculty at Marshall University's Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine in Huntington, WV. She has published regarding ITP (
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16502732
) and is a participating physician of the Intercontinental Cooperative ITP Study Group.
marshallhealth.org/services/pediatrics/our-doctors/our-doctors-details/?id=346
From the PDSA:
The treatments for ITP in children can vary depending on the child’s platelet count, activity level and bleeding symptoms. Whatever the treatment regimen, it is important for the child to have as normal a life as possible. Because many children recover and the treatments can be difficult, some pediatric hematologists suggest a watchful waiting approach.The 2011 American Society of Hematology guidelines recommend that children be managed with observation alone if they have only mild or no bleeding symptoms, regardless of platelet count. New treatments for children are in Clinical Trials.
Bruising and petechiae can be scary-looking, but are considered mild symptoms. Persistent mucosal bleeding generally requires treatment.
www.bloodjournal.org/content/117/16/4190.full
The American Society of Hematology 2011 evidence-based practice guideline for immune thrombocytopenia
1.2.A. We recommend:
Children with no bleeding or mild bleeding (defined as skin manifestations only, such as bruising and petechiae) be managed with observation alone regardless of platelet count (grade 1B).