Hi There,

I am not sure if I am directing my question to the correct expert but if I am not, please forward this to the appropriate individual.

I was wondering about HIV infection and thrombocytopenia. Specifically, when (or even if) thrombocytopenia may occur with HIV infection. Does this occur early (if early, how early - is it in the seroconversion phase or months/years after infection; or is it even known when exactly it may occur. Or does this occur in the later stages of infection or after conversion from HIV to AIDS.

Thanks

Raj

Hello Raj

HIV-related immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) can occur at any period within the HIV disease spectrum, if platelet associated immunoglobulin is present. Other causes of HIV- related thrombocytopenia include circulating immune complexes that precipitate on the platelet surface, cross-reactive antibodies to platelet surface glycoproteins and direct retroviral infection of megakaryocytes. Most patients with HIV-related ITP have only minor submucosal bleeding or easy bruising, and the majority of patients with HIV- related ITP never have life threatening bleeding episodes. Treatments vary from no intervention to treatment with steroids, gamma globulin or splenectomy. Hope this information helps.