Spontaneous remission of cytomegalovirus-related immune thrombocytopenia in a healthy adult

Abstract

A previously healthy 59-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital due to petechiae. Investigations showed profound thrombocytopenia (1.5×10⁴/μl) and mild elevation of transaminases. The serological examination revealed acute cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection. We intermittently measured CMV load in her clinical course. The petechiae improved with no therapy. One month later, the platelet count was increased up to 7.6×10⁴/μl and CMV-DNA was reduced to undetectable levels. CMV-induced thrombocytopenia in an immunocompetent adult is rare. We also recognized the association of platelet counts and virus load in the natural course of this patient with CMV-induced thrombocytopenia.