Background: This study sought to clarify the pathogenesis of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) and make preliminary investigations regarding a therapeutic approach.

Methods: Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to establish and analyze the standard curve for interferon (IFN) γ, interleukin (IL) 4, and IL-17 in order to determine a measurement method for these cytokines. Subsequently, cellular levels of IFN-γ, IL-4, and IL-17 in the peripheral blood of patients in the treatment group (traditional Chinese medicine) was compared with those in the control group (Western-style care). An ITP mice model was also established and treated with different medications.

Results: Th1/Th2 cell quantities in ITP patients were significantly higher than in healthy individuals (P<0.05). Furthermore, IL-17 secreted by Th17 cells was significantly higher in ITP patients than healthy individuals (P<0.01). A combination of traditional Chinese medicine and Western-style care yielded the best treatment effect for ITP mice, followed by Western medicine alone and then Chinese medicine alone.

Conclusions: The experimental results suggested that Th17 cells may be more related to the pathogenesis of ITP, and that application of Western-style care supplemented by traditional Chinese medicine may yield a more optimal treatment for ITP.