Hello,

Thank you for posting a query.

Look, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura is a disease caused by destruction of the platelets. In this disease the main concern is low platelet count.

Now, your son has already treated with intravenous immunoglobulin. So, next option is steroid. It cannot be stopped without having proper reason to do that.

If he is experiencing side effects of steroids, then some other treatment modalities are available. I am discussing them one by one.

Splenectomy is the first option. But in that case, postoperative complications due to infections are very hazardous. So, decision of operation should be taken very cautiously.

Some newer drug is available in USA – eltrombopag and romiplostim. They are helpful to increase the platelet count. It has been proved in clinical trials. Some important side effects are headache, joint or muscle pain, dizziness, nausea or vomiting, and an increased risk of blood clots.

Among the two options, the decision to choose the right one is solely dependent on your treating doctor. The decision should be taken after comparing the effects and side effects of the treatment options. The clinical features and platelet counts are also important.

So, consult with the treating doctor for further management.

Hope this information suffices. Let me know, if you have any more question.

Regards.

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