spelenomegaly therapy (caused by progressive hepatitis)

[jackchen]

Diagnosis: spelenomegaly; varicose hepatic vein; less than half of normal level's of white blood cells and platelets. Patients with history of several years of relapsed hepatitis.
Doctor suggests splenectomy. Is there any other therapy for this? Thanks very much.

[FloridaMouse]

I lost my spleen back in 1984 when I was on chemo for Leukemia.  I don't miss it and I've been able to treat my hep without it.  My platelet have stayed in the normal ranges most of the time while on treatment and all the time when I'm not on treatment.  The only lifestyle change I've had from my missing spleen is that I have to be a little m ore careful when it comes to being exposed to illness.

Mouse

[jackchen]

Thanks for your reply. It's not me. I asked for my father in law. The platelet number is 33*10^9/L. Thanks.

[Xhrles]

do not think think there is a current therapy for low platelets but  Glaxo Smith Kline has a drug called eltrombopag in trials and they just recieved a fast track review status from the FDA. Glaxo may be able to give better guidance on a rough time estimate for when it may be available and you could discuss it with your doctor and decide whether to wait or operate. There are a number of people on this site with low platelets. How low are your numbers? Good luck