Autoimmune thrombocytopenic purpura complicating lymphoproliferative disorders.

Thrombocytopenia in patients with lymphoproliferative disorders is usually multifactorial. In some patients, peripheral destruction of platelets by platelet autoantibodies may account in part for the thrombocytopenia. However, the diagnosis of autoimmune thrombocytopenic purpura in this group of patients can be difficult due to the splenomegaly and compromised bone marrows in some of these patients. The development of autoimmune thrombocytopenic purpura in these patients does not affect the eventual outcome of the underlying lymphoproliferative disorders. Unfortunately the current available therapy for this condition is unsatisfactory. Other innovative treatment modalities are therefore much needed.