Exegesis. – The first case was an idiopathic form, complicated by hemorragic peritoneal effusion. After failure of steroids, intravenous immunoglobulins and splenectomy and 2 courses of rituximab, plasmapheresis normalized in 3 days platelet count. In the second observation, ITP was associated to systemic lupus with antiphospholipids antibodies and multivisceral failure, despite steroids and intravenous immunoglobulins. After 3 plasma exchanges, platelet count was normalized, and the patient is under remission after 24 months follow-up.
Conclusion. – Plasmapheresis must be evaluated as an emergency treatment in refractory forms of acute immune thrombocytopenic purpura.