Platelet Disorder Support Association

Join Us:

Become a Member

Support Us:

Make a Donation
    Remember Me     Forgot Login?   Sign up   •  Web site Help & Info
!!! DISCUSSION GROUP RULES !!!

1. You must be a registered website user in order to post and comment. Guests may read only.
2. Be kind and helpful, not rude and cynical.
3. Don't advertise or promote anything. You will be banned from the group.
4. Report problems to the moderators. THANK YOU!

ITP following splenectomy

More
13 years 4 months ago #25205 by em01
ITP following splenectomy was created by em01
I was diagnosed with ITP 4 years ago and regularly had a platelet count of 1. After 12 months of steroids and other treatments I finally had a splenectomy which resolved my situation with no further problems. However, today I have had results showing my platelet count to be 45 following a short period of time with various levels of bruising and bleeding. I cannot find any information as to why this may happen. I know splenectomy is not 100% effective but has anyone else had experience of this? I was only informed I needed another blood test by letter and after much persuasion my doctors receptionist told me this evening that my count was 45 so I have not yet had any medical advice. Any comments / advice / recommendations welcome as i'm slightly concerned / confused!
  • Sandi
  • Offline
  • Sandi Forum Moderator Diagnosed in 1998, currently in remission. Diagnosed with Lupus in 2006. Last Count - 344k - 6-9-18
More
13 years 4 months ago #25209 by Sandi
Replied by Sandi on topic Re: ITP following splenectomy
Em:

The success rate for splenectomies tends to drop as time goes on. Many splenectomies fail over a period of months or years. It is fairly common. The reason is that the spleen is not the only organ that produces antibodies against platelets. The liver may also contribute to that and can actually take over that function after the spleen is gone.

Another reason that ITP can recur is that the body can also begin to produce antibodies that affect platelet production.

Your count is still fairly safe right now and following up is a good idea. Some people find that attaining a remission after a failed splenectomy is easier than before they had the surgery, so maybe you will get lucky with that.

Have you been sick lately or have you started any new meds or herbal supplements? Sometimes that can trigger ITP.
More
13 years 4 months ago #25212 by em01
Replied by em01 on topic Re: ITP following splenectomy
Hi Sandi

Many thanks for your reply, that is all useful information to know. But no, I havent started any new medication or herbal remedies. I'm having another blood test tomorrow so I will see what happens from there.

Many thanks again.
  • Sandi
  • Offline
  • Sandi Forum Moderator Diagnosed in 1998, currently in remission. Diagnosed with Lupus in 2006. Last Count - 344k - 6-9-18
More
13 years 4 months ago - 13 years 4 months ago #25213 by Sandi
Replied by Sandi on topic Re: ITP following splenectomy
You might want to watch this video. It's pretty informative.

www.pdsa.org/forum/7-treatment-general/25050-video-worth-watching-drew-provan.html
Platelet Disorder Support Association

Donate

About

Stay Informed

Follow Us

IMPORTANT!

The Platelet Disorder Support Association does not provide medical advice or endorse any medication, vitamins or herbs. The information contained herein is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice and is provided for educational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment, discontinuing an existing treatment and to discuss any questions you may have regarding your unique medical condition.


Platelet Disorder Support Association
8751 Brecksville Road, Suite 150, Cleveland, Ohio 44141
Phone: 1-87-PLATELET | 877-528-3538 (toll free) | or 440-746-9003
E-mail: pdsa@pdsa.org


© Copyright 1997 - 2025, Platelet Disorder Support Association. All rights reserved.
The Platelet Disorder Support Association is a 501(c)3 organization and donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.


Privacy Policy and Terms of Use