After eight-year-tolerance minimal i.v. anti-D infusions unleash hemolysis in a patient with immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP).

Author(s): Rewald MD, Francischetti MM

Affiliation(s): e.rewald@speedy.com.ar

Publication date & source: 2004-04, Transfus Apher Sci., 30(2):105-10.

Publication type: Case Reports

Minimal doses of i.v. anti-D for ITP are not exempt from the risk of intravascular hemolysis, a rare potentially severe short-lived post-infusion complication. We report here on an elderly woman with chronic pancytopenia and splenomegaly in whom bleeding manifestations ceased after i.v. anti-Rh(D) immunoglobulin minidoses replaced long-term conventional treatment for immune thrombocytopenic purpura. Anti-Rh(D) infusions, that had been well tolerated for eight years, became the main culprit in triggering of disproportionate hemolysis. In spite of in crescendo complication, the anti-Rh(D) immunoglobulin schedule was maintained for another six months. With no further treatment, the patient's health remains stable 20 months later.