Canterbury DHB
Platelet disorders can be treated with desmopressin, platelet transfusion, or recombinant factor VIIa.
Desmopressin shortens the bleeding time, at least partially, in the majority of patients with mild bleeding disorders secondary to platelet function abnormalities. The mechanism for this effect is unknown and may be due to vessel wall constriction. A therapeutic trial is indicated where possible to determine if an individual patient is desmopressin responsive.
In cases of more severe bleeding, a platelet transfusion may be required. There is some evidence that patients with congenital bleeding disorders respond to recombinant factor VIIa, however this should not be used without consultation with a haematologist.
Topic Code: 5282