Abstract
This before-and-after randomized clinical trial examined the impact of Helicobacter pylori elimination on the number of platelets among 23 patients (< 20 years) with chronic immune thrombocytopenic purpura (CITP). In order to detect H. pylori infections, urea breath test was performed. Based on the findings, the subjects were divided into 2 groups: uninfected (13 cases) and infected (10 cases). The groups were not significantly different regarding sex, age, anti-D treatment, history of splenectomy, or prednisolone use. None of the patients had a history of fatal diseases. Two out of 10 infected patients did not respond to H. pylori eradication treatment (resistant to treatment), while 8 patients responded to the treatment (responder group). The platelet count was assessed at baseline, as well as 3 and 6 months posttreatment. However, a steady increase was reported in the platelet count only in the responder group. A major increase was observed at 6 months after treatment versus the baseline (56.2±22.2 vs. 233±85.6 ×103/mcL; P< 0.01). Therefore, treatment was successful in CITP patients below 20 years and resulted in increased platelet count for at least 6 months.