Post-transfusion purpura
This occurs when individuals lacking the PLA-1 antigen are transfused with blood containing PLA-1 positive platelets. It is uncommon as only 2-3% of the population are PLA-1 negative.
Thrombocytopenia - often severe - occurs 5 - 14 days after transfusion. Clinically, presentation is with bruising and petechiae.
Often the patient has been sensitised by a previous transfusion or by pregnancy.
The thrombocytopenia usually resolves within a month.
Recovery may be hastened by treatment with immunoglobulin.
Related pages
Create an account to add page annotations
Add information to this page that would be handy to have on hand during a consultation, such as a web address or phone number. This information will always be displayed when you visit this page