The management of dental extractions in cases of thrombasthenia complicated by the development of isoantibodies to donor platelets.

Two cases of thrombasthenia, a rare hereditary disorder of platelet function, are presented. The oral surgical and dental management of these cases is discussed in the light of the development of isoantibodies to transfused platelets in one of the cases and in another case encountered. The problems of obtaining donor platelets matched for platelet and HL-A antigens are discussed. Emphasis is placed on the use of local hemostatic measures and antifibrinolytic agents in the management of hemorrhage in this disorder and the avoidance of platelet transfusions as far as possible. Conservative dentistry and early preventive dental advice are considered desirable in order to avoid extractions.