Autoimmune Thrombocytopenic Purpura and Helicobacter pylori Infection

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Abstract
AUTOIMMUNE thrombocytopenic purpura (AITP) is an acquired bleeding disorder in which autoantibodies bind to platelet surface, leading to platelet destruction.1 The mechanisms triggering the production of platelet autoantibodies are poorly understood. In childhood, AITP is usually an acute self-limited problem; in contrast, AITP in adults is most often chronic, and up to 25% of cases of chronic AITP are refractory to standard therapy. Recently, it was suggested that Helicobacter pylori may contribute to AITP pathogenesis, as partial or even complete remission of thrombocytopenia has been reported in a few patients after eradication of H pylori.2-6 However, although there is evidence implicating H pylori in some autoimmune disorders,7-9 the link between H pylori infection and AITP remains speculative.