Treatment Options for Thrombocytopenia in Patients with Chronic Liver Disease Undergoing a Scheduled Procedure

Publication Date

2020

Journal Title

J Clin Gastroenterol

Abstract

Copyright © 2020 The Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. Thrombocytopenia is a consequence of portal hypertension and is the most common hematological manifestation of chronic liver disease (CLD) (ie, cirrhosis). Data indicates the rates of CLD are increasing and, as a result, so will the incidence of this complication. Although bleeding risks are only relevant when elective procedures are performed, this is a frequent concern as these procedures are commonly part of the spectrum of care for patients with cirrhosis. As such, thrombocytopenia remains a pertinent issue. Fortunately, we now have effective and accurate treatment modalities to raise platelet counts before scheduled procedures, known as thrombopoietin receptor agonists. Two drugs in this therapeutic class (avatrombopag and lusutrombopag) are now approved for the treatment of thrombocytopenia in adults with CLD undergoing a procedure and have revolutionized how this is managed. Although there is progress in the field, peer-reviewed literature and expert guidance are lacking. Recognizing these unmet needs, a group of expert hepatologists comprised this review, which summarizes the most current and relevant peer-reviewed literature on thrombocytopenia in CLD and provides clinical expertise on this timely topic.

Volume Number

54

Issue Number

6

Pages

503-511

Document Type

Article

Status

Faculty

Facility

School of Medicine

Primary Department

Hepatology

Additional Departments

Science Education

PMID

32195771

DOI

10.1097/MCG.0000000000001338

For the public and Northwell Health campuses

Share

COinS