HIV-1-related thrombocytopenia

Abstract

Immunologic thrombocytopenia has recently been described in HIV-1 seropositive patients: homosexuals, narcotic addicts, hemophiliacs, and heterosexual partners of HIV-1 infected patients. All patients have markedly elevated platelet-bound IgG and C3C4 as well as circulating immune complexes. The immune complexes of homosexuals and narcotic addicts contain anti-F(ab') against anti-HIV-1 antibody. These are present in the serum and on the platelets, and could be responsible for the thrombocytopenia.