Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
Is Slpeen Removal Effective In Treatment Of Chronic ITP?
Question: I have Chronic ITP my treatment is Nplate injection when my Platelets drop low. At time the Nplate lasts for 3 weeks with numbers 100 to 325 I take weekly CBC . At times my platelet count will be example 170 then 3 days later 30 . My Dr is sujesting that I should get my spleen removed. I am 69 yrs. old. in fairly good health . I not a fan of having surgery. Do you know some pros and cons of having this done.
Brief Answer:
Following suggestions...
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
I have gone through your medical history and am sorry for the situation you are in.
From what you are saying, Nplate injection and other treatments are not working in keeping your platlets count within the normal range.
Removing the spleen is indicated in cases of chronic ITP which are not responding to the medication therapy.
Before going for surgery, should discuss with the surgeon regarding the complications (bleeding and/or infection). Your doctor will take proper care to prevent such complications from occurring.
Hope it helped! Let me know if you have more queries!
Dr.Albana
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thank you for the sound advise. I guess my concern is that the risk that the spleen removal does not always work. then I am back to square one. Nplate does work but
I need to take it every couple weeks. I guess I need to consult with surgeon and get a couple more opinions and deceide . I am hoping that medical advancements will come up with a solution that will advoid having surgery. Since i am not really in any danger now. I have some time to deceide what to do.
Thank You
Brief Answer:
All the best!
Detailed Answer:
Hi back,
Thank you for following up.
To my personal experience, when it comes to patients like you, I usually sit down and consult myself with the surgeon, hematologist and anesthesiologist to decide the best option. Altogether, then, discuss the decision with the patient.
This is what I am suggesting to you: make a discussion with general surgeon (the one who will conduct the surgery), the hematologist (to evaluate your blood profile), anesthesiologist (for further assistance in the operation theater). Then, can decide together for the best option.
Hope the best for you!
Dr.Albana
Note: Do you have more questions on diagnosis or treatment of blood disorders? Ask An Expert/ Specialist Now
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
