hematology and oncology
Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP)
Introduction
Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is an acute, fulminant disorder characterized by thrombocytopenia and microangiopathic hemolytic anemia. Other manifestations may include alterations in level of consciousness and sometime kidney failure. Diagnosis requires demonstrating characteristic laboratory test abnormalities, including direct antiglobulin test–negative hemolytic anemia and reduced levels ofADAMTS13. Treatment is plasma exchange, corticosteroids,rituximab, and rarelycaplacizumab. (See also Overview of Platelet Disorders .) 