a prospective, multicenter, randomized, open-label, Phase II, two arms interventional trial performed in 5 departments of hematology in China

This is a prospective, multicenter, randomized, open-label, Phase II, two arms interventional trial performed in 5 departments of hematology in China. The investigators explore the efficacy and safety of Rituximab plus short-term methylprednisolone compare standard dose methylprednisolone in newly diagnosed ITP participants.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Clinically confirmed immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) newly diagnosed
2. Platelet count less than 30×109/L on two occasions or Platelets above 30×109/L combined with bleeding manifestation
3. Subject is ≥ 18 years and ≤80years
4. Subject has signed and dated written informed consent.
5. Fertile patients must use effective contraception during treatment and observational period
6. Negative pregnancy test

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Have an impaired renal function as indicated by a serum creatinine level > 2.0 mg/dL
2. Have an inadequate liver function as indicated by a total bilirubin level > 2.0 mg/dL and/or an aspartate aminotransaminase or alanine aminotransferase level > 3×upper limit of normal
3. Have a New York Heart Classification III or IV heart disease
4. Have a history of severe psychiatric disorder or are unable to comply with study and follow-up procedures
5. Have active hepatitis B or hepatitis C infection
6. Have a HIV infection
7. Have active infection requiring antibiotic therapy within 7 days prior to study entry
8. Are pregnant or lactating women, or plan to become pregnant or impregnated within 12 months of receiving study drug
9. Previous treatment with rituximab
10. Previous splenectomy
11. Had previous or concomitant malignant disease
12. Not willing to participate in the study.
13. Expected survival of < 2 years
14. Intolerant to murine antibodies
15. Immunosuppressive treatment within the last month
16. Connective tissue disease
17. Autoimmune hemolytic anemia
18. Patients currently involved in another clinical trial with evaluation of drug treatment