Article Details - Overview
Critical Advances in the Management of Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura
Summaries of Lectures From a Satellite Symposium Held in Conjunction With the 50th ASH Annual Meeting and Exposition
San Francisco, CA
December 6-9, 2008
Release Date: May 23, 2009
Expiration Date: May 23, 2010
Publication Overview
Author
PER Editorial Staff
Overview and Purpose
Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is an autoimmune disease characterized by a low platelet count and mucocutaneous bleeding. The low platelet count seen in patients with ITP is the result of accelerated platelet destruction mediated by antiplatelet antibodies and, in some cases, impaired platelet production. The goal of ITP management is to raise and maintain platelet counts in order to prevent life-threatening bleeding events and to improve patient quality of life. Treatment standards for ITP have not changed substantially in > 10 years. Corticosteroids have long been the standard first-line therapy for adults with ITP. Other initial treatment options include intravenous immunoglobulin and anti-D. Splenectomy remains a viable option for patients with refractory ITP, and the anti-CD20 antibody rituximab also has efficacy in this setting. The development of thrombopoietin receptor agonists (TPO-RAs) has provided a new and effective treatment option for the management of patients with refractory ITP.
The purpose of this activity is to update physicians on the treatment of patients with ITP.
Target Audience
This educational activity is intended for medical oncologists and hematologists involved in the care of patients with ITP. No specific skills or knowledge other than a basic training in oncology is required for successful participation in this activity.
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this educational activity, you should be able to:
- Explain how the current understanding of the pathophysiology of ITP led to the development of new targeted therapeutics for patients with ITP
- Describe the efficacy and safety of initial management options for patients with ITP
- Evaluate the efficacy and safety of splenectomy in patients with ITP
- Discuss treatment options for patients with chronic ITP who require acute therapeutic intervention
- Assess the efficacy and safety of TPO-RAs in the treatment of patients with refractory ITP
Instructions for Participation
- Read the following information before entering the educational activity.
- Study the educational activity.
- After completion of the Pretest and successful completion of the Posttest and evaluation, you will receive your certificate online.
You will be permitted 2 attempts to successfully complete the Posttest.
You will be asked to login
or create an account.