[Advances in diagnosis and treatment of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura].

The diversity of diagnostic criteria of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) makes it difficult to compare clinical trial results and exchange clinical experiences. To address this issue, an ITP international working group convened a consensus conference in Italy in October 2007, and some new consensus concerning the terminology, definition, phases, grading of severity, prognosis, and treatment were achieved. The treatment of ITP has been dramatically improved along with the introduction of novel therapeutic agents. Rituximab, a monoclonal anti-CD20 antibody that is able to deplete autoantibody-producing B lymphocytes, has been widely applied because of its high efficacy and safety. Recent evidences suggest that decreased platelet production may also contribute to the development of ITP. Therefore, novel thrombopoiesis-stimulating agents such as thrombopoietin-receptor agonists Romiplostim and Eltrombopag have become new therapeutic options for ITP.