Partial splenic embolization for refractory thrombocytopenia

• Type of Material: Article
• Authors: Irwin M Best, Emory University
• Language: English
• Date: 2011-09-28
• Publisher: PAGEpress
• Publication Version: Final Published Version
• Copyright Statement: © I.M. Best, 2011
• License: Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International
• Final Published Version (URL): http://www.clinicsandpractice.org/index.php/cp/article/view/248
• Title of Journal or Parent Work: Clinics and Practice
• ISSN: 2039-7275
• Volume: 1
• Issue: 4
• Start Page: 277
• End Page: 278
• Keywords: partial splenic embolization; thrombocytopenia; ITP
• Research Categories: Health Sciences, Radiology

Abstract

When the platelet count falls below 20¥ 109/L, the risk of spontaneous life threatening hemorrhage is concerning for both physician and patient. When medical management fails, splenectomy is often used to manage the severe thrombocytopenia before spontaneous, life-threatening gastrointestinal or intracranial bleeding occurs. We present the non surgical management of such a patient with refractory sever thrombocytopenia who refused surgical intervention. She underwent partial splenic embolic therapy with 500-700 μ particles. Her platelet count spontaneous recovered from less than 20¥109/L to normal range. Her counts remained in normal range after discharge home. Further study is needed to determine the most appropriate role for embolization in patients who are refractory to medical management and those with chronically low platelet counts requiring frequent plate transfusions for invasive procedures.