Reclassification of the Thrombocytopenias by the Cr51-Labeling Method for Measuring Platelet Life Span

Abstract

Predominant Peripheral DestructionThe "immune" variety of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura illustrates the third category of lifespan studies of Cr⁵¹-labeled platelets — namely, thrombocytopenia secondary to increased platelet destruction with a relatively normal or increased production. This is exemplified by the response noted in Figure 7. The initial study was performed at a time when a bleeding diathesis was evident and the platelet count was 10,000 per cubic millimeter. Isologous platelets showed a markedly shortened life span. Treatment with prednisone raised the platelet count, reversed the bleeding diathesis and increased the half life of isologous Cr⁵¹-labeled platelets to one and . . .