Objective: To analyze the responses of pediatric patients with newly-diagnosed acute primary idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) to two distinct corticosteroids.
Methods: We retrospectively reviewed a cohort of 259 patients with acute ITP diagnosed between 2004 and 2008. Specifically, we compared response rates and adverse effects in patients treated with methylprednisolone or dexamethasone.
Results: Corticosteroids were used as the first-line treatment in all patients with an initial response rate of 96.5%. Choice of the intravenous corticosteroid for treatment did not affect the outcome of patients. The time platelet count maintained at a normal level showed no statistical difference between patients administered with methylprednisolone or dexamethasone. Only minor adverse effects were observed in both groups of patients.
Conclusions: Both corticosteroids yielded similarly high response rates and minor adverse effects in ITP patients. This should be taken into account when choosing the treatment regimen for children with acute ITP.