Background: Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an autoimmune disease with excessive platelet destruction and reduced platelet production. Progranulin (PGRN) has a protective effect against autoimmune diseases by competitive binding tumor necrosis factor-α receptors. Thus, we assessed the serum progranulin level in relation to platelet count in ITP patients, pre-and post-induction of corticosteroid therapy.
Methods: A case – control study was conducted on 30 ITP patients and 30 apparently healthy subjects serving as acontrol group. Platelet count and serum progranulin levels were measured in newly diagnosed ITP patients before and 3−7 days after starting corticosteroid treatment.
Results: The mean serum level of PGRN was significantly higher in ITP patients pre-treatment compared to healthy control subjects (P