Effectiveness of Helicobacter pylori eradication in pregnant women with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura

Platelet counts increase after eradication of Helicobacter pylori (Hp) infection in non-pregnant patients with Hp-associated idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP); however, improvement in pregnant patients has not yet been reported. We treated four pregnant women for Hp-positive ITP after Hp eradication. In three of four cases, platelet counts increased to levels exceeding 10 × 10⁹/L two weeks after eradication, and these levels were maintained until delivery. Vaginal deliveries were uncomplicated, and no excessive blood loss occurred in any of the cases. There were no remarkable side effects of Hp eradication in pregnant women or fetuses. In pregnant women with Hp-associated ITP, Hp eradication might be worthwhile prior to considering steroid administration.