High dose intravenous anti-D immune globulin is more effective and safe in Indian paediatric patients of immune thrombocytopenic purpura

Abstract

Introduction: Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP) is characterised by an autoimmune antibody-mediated destruction of platelets and impaired platelet production. Few controlled trials exist to guide management of patients with ITP in Indian scenario for which patients require an individualized approach. Anti-D (Rho) at a higher dose can prove to be a cost effective and safe alternative for Indian patients with ITP. Aim: To compare the safety and efficacy of higher dose (75µg/kg) intravenous Anti-D immune globulin against the standard does of 50µg/kg for the management of ITP in Indian patients. Materials and Methods: One hundred 64 children with newly diagnosed ITP between 4-14 years were randomly selected for inclusion and were treated with 50µg/kg (standard dose) or 75µg /kg (higher dose) of Anti-D to compare the efficacy and safety of higher dose intravenous anti-D immune globulin. Efficacy of Anti-D was measured in terms of rate of response and median time to response for increase in platelet counts. Any adverse event was noted. A decrease in haemoglobin concentration suggested accompanying haemolysis. Results: Seventy one out of 84 patients treated with Anti-D at 75µg/kg produced complete response (85%) with median time of response being 2.5 days. On the contrary,45 patients (70%) patients treated with 50µg/kg had complete response. However there was no significant increase in haemolysis with higher dose. A significant correlation was found between dose and peak increase in platelet count measured at 7th day following administration. However,there was no relationship between the decrease in haemoglobin and the dose given,or between the increase in platelet count and fall in haemoglobin. Conclusion: A 75µg/kg dose of Anti-D is more effective with acceptable side effect in comparison to 50µg dose for treatment of newly diagnosed Indian patients of ITP.