Results Analysis Related

Review Results Analysis related questions and content

Intravenous immune globulin (IVIG) therapy is prescribed for a child diagnosed with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). What are the expected results of this medication?

  • A. Urine positive for glucose and negative for protein
  • B. Urine specific gravity of 1.020 and negative for red blood cells
  • C. White blood cell count 18,000 mm^3 (18 × 10^9/L) and platelets 355,000 mm^3 (355 × 10^9/L)
  • D. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) 22 mg/dL (7.92 mmol/L) and creatinine levels of 2.1 mg/dL (185 mcmol/L)
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: IVIG is usually effective to rapidly increase the platelet count. It is thought to act by interfering with the attachment of antibody-coded platelets to receptors on the macrophage cells of the reticuloendothelial system. Corticosteroids may be prescribed to enhance vascular stability and decrease the production of antiplatelet antibodies. Based on this information, the remaining options are unrelated to the administration of this medication.