Abstract

Two children with varicella associated thrombocytopenia are presented. Case 1, evidencing no mucosal or parenchymal bleeding was administered prednisone 2 mg/kg/day therapy after having been put under observation for a period of one week without medical treatment. There was an increase in the platelet count during the period of therapy culminating in a return to normal on the eighth day. Case 2, who was in poor clinical condition at presentation, was treated with high-dose intravenous methylprednisolone (HIVMP) 30 mg/kg/day, resulting in the platelet count returning to a normal level (180,000/mm3) on the second day of therapy. HIVMP therapy is recommended in the treatment of life-threatening cases of thrombocytopenia because of its rapid action, limited side-effects, and its low cost.

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1.
Aji DY, Altinkaya N, Güler A, Ayhan YI, Erginel A, Cenani A. The role of high-dose intravenous methylprednisolone in the treatment of varicella associated thrombocytopenic purpura. Turk J Pediatr 1993; 35: 69-73.