Primary immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an auto-immune disorder resulting in the premature destruction of platelets, and in a defect in their production; this process is characterized by isolated thrombocytopenia, defined as a peripheral blood platelet count below 100 x 109 /dL without an apparent cause. It is estimated that the annual ITP incidence in adults is similar for both sexes, representing 2 to 4 cases per 100,000 people approximately, however, there is a higher incidence in women among young patients. The treatment of choice should be evaluated by the physician and the patient, considering general recommendations. First-line treatment includes corticosteroids, anti-D immunoglobulin, and immunoglobulin IV; second-line therapy includes splenectomy, rituximab, azathioprine, cyclosporin, cyclophosphamide, mofetil mycophenolate, vincristine or danazol, and more recently due to the need of more effective treatments, and less adverse effects, the thrombopoietin receptor agonists have been developed. New therapeutic strategies increase platelet counts, decrease hemorrhagic events, and have no significant adverse effects, however, they do not offer a cure. New approved thrombopoietic agents for ITP, such as romiplostim and eltrombopag have demonstrated treatment efficacy and safety. This review is intended to offer a general overview of the new therapeutic options for this pathology that is under constant study.
