Human immunodeficiency virus(HIV)-associated idiopathic thrombocytopenic
purpura(ITP) is developed by nonspecific deposition of circulating immune complexes on
platelets and their subsequent clearance. Authors report a case of ITP in HIV-infected
hemophiliac confirmed by Western blot test. This is the fast report on the association of
ITP with HIV-infected hemophiliacs in Korea. A 13-month-old male child was admitted
at Kyung Hee University Hospital in January 1995, with a past history of hemophilia A
and complained of petechiae as well as rnelena. Peripheral blood smears showed
thrombocytopenia and bone marrow study revealed the fIndings consitent with ITP. The
level of coagulation factor Ⅷ was 6% and that of factor ? was 79%. Antiplatelet
antibody was positive in patient's sera by indirect immunofluorescent test. Enzyme
immunoassay(EIA) test for HIV antibody was reactive in patient's sera. Western blot
tests for HIV antibody were positive against HIV gene products; p24, gp41, and gp160.
The confirmation test for HIV antigen was also positive in patient's sera. The patient
was received symptomatic treatments with antihemophilic factor Ⅷ concentrate and
intravenous gammaglobulin, however, not improved. At the age of 20 months, the
patients had exacerbation of internal bleeding and loss of consciousness, soon followed
by death.

Keywords: Human immunodeficiency virus, Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, Hemophilia A