Thrombocytopenia and Coronary Artery Disease, the Existing Dilemmas

Abstract

Background: Platelets play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and acute or chronic complications following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) as well. Platelet inhibition is a cornerstone treatment in the management of these patients. Thrombocytopenia in patients with ACS is uncommon. Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is a rare phenomenon; nevertheless, some case series presenting concomitant ACS and ITP have been described in the literature. The safety of antiplatelet therapy and PCI in patients who have ACS and thrombocytopenia is limited.

Keywords

• acute coronary syndrome
• thrombocytopenia
• idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura