This is an important study aimed at determining if administration of eltrombopag reduces the need for platelet transfusion in thrombocytopenic patients with chronic liver disease who are undergoing invasive procedures. Although the primary endpoint was reached, evidence of increased frequency of portal vein thrombosis in the treatment group caused early termination of the study. In consideration of this adverse event, the authors conclude that further studies are warranted and eltrombopag cannot be currently recommended as an alternative to platelet transfusion in thrombocytopenic patients with chronic liver disease undergoing invasive procedures.
– Paolo Rebulla