Treatment options in sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim-induced thrombocytopenic purpura.

Abstract

We describe two female patients who had severe sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim-induced thrombocytopenic purpura. One case occurred shortly after initiating therapy, whereas the other began on the seventh day of treatment. Both patients presented a platelet count below 5,000/microL, extensive purpura, and significant vaginal bleeding. Treatment with systemic corticosteroids resulted in rapid resolution of the thrombocytopenia in the first patient, but had no immediate effect in the other. High-dose intravenous immunoglobulin was effective in correcting the thrombocytopenia in this second instance. Both patients were discharged with a tapering 4-week course of oral prednisone and have remained well since.

• Authors: A Herrington, A Mahmood, R Berger
• Journal: Southern medical journal (South Med J) Vol. 87 Issue 9 Pg. 948-50 (Sep 1994) ISSN: 0038-4348 [Print] United States
• PMID: 8091265 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Immunoglobulins, Intravenous
• Trimethoprim, Sulfamethoxazole Drug Combination
• Prednisone
• Methylprednisolone

Topics

• Adult
• Female
• Humans
• Immunoglobulins, Intravenous (therapeutic use)
• Methylprednisolone (therapeutic use)
• Prednisone (therapeutic use)
• Purpura, Thrombocytopenic (chemically induced, therapy)
• Trimethoprim, Sulfamethoxazole Drug Combination (adverse effects)