Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura: Report of 10 cases

Abstract

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a rare and serious disease. Although a number of treatment methods have been used plasma infusion and plasmapheresis has become standard therapy in the treatment of TTP. We investigated clinical and laboratory findings and results of plasmapheresis treatment in 10 patients with acute TTP. Microangiopathic hemolytic anemia and thrombocytopenia were present in all patients, neurologic symptoms were noted in 80%, renal abnormalities in 70% and fever in 60% of patients. Clinical status and laboratory parameters improved strikingly in nine out of ten patients after plasmapheresis therapy was commenced. However, one patient did not respond to this treatment and died on the 6th day of therapy. Unless it is treated effectively, TTP carries a mortality of about 100%. Plasmapheresis should be considered to be the first choice of treatment because it has been shown to be quite effective and safe.