Investigation of celiac disease followed by immune thrombocytopenic purpura diagnosis in patients and comparison with literature

OBJECTIVE: Celiac disease (CD) and Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) may occur together as a result of similar autoimmune mechanisms. The aim of this study was to assess the frequency of CD in a group of ITP patients and in the literature. METHODS: A total of 29 patients in Pamukkale University Faculty of Medicine Hospital Pediatric Hematology and Oncology Department with ITP were included in the study. Test was performed for the antibodies related to CD. Positive result for celiac antibodies was confirmed with biopsy. The results were compared with the literature. RESULTS: Of the study group, 13 patients (44.8%) were female and 16 (55.2%) were male. The mean age was 7.2±4.7 years and mean platelet count at the time of admission was 13,440±11,110/mm(3) (range: 2000-41,000/mm(3)). Twelve patients (41.4%) were diagnosed as acute ITP, 6 patients (20.7%) as persistent ITP, and 11 patients (37.9%) as chronic ITP, according to the duration of thrombocytopenia. Antibody positivity was detected in 1 patient. Histological evaluation was compatible with CD. Results were compared with studies regarding the prevalence of CD in the population. No significant difference was found. CONCLUSION: Although it is not necessary to perform CD test in every case of ITP, the presence of differential diagnosis of CD is important to prevent unnecessary treatment, especially in ITP patients with growth retardation or malabsorption findings.