Description
Mrs S.J., a 39 year old Iranian lady, was admitted in November 1996 with a one day history of generalised purpura, mucosal haemorrhage involving her mouth and mild haematuria. A full blood count showed severe thrombocytopenia (2×109/l) which was confirmed on an otherwise unremarkable blood film. Red and white cell indices, and a clotting screen were all within the normal range. A bone marrow aspirate showed plentiful megakaryocytes consistent with peripheral consumption of platelets.
