answersLogoWhite

0

Definition

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a blood disorder that causes blood clots to form in small blood vessels around the body, and leads to a low platelet count (thrombocytopenia).

See also: Hemolytic-uremic syndrome

Alternative Names

TTP

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

This disease may be caused by the lack of an enzyme (a type of protein) that is involved in blood clotting. Not having enough of this enzyme causes clotting to occur. As the platelets clump together in these clots, fewer platelets are available in the blood in other parts of the body to help with clotting. This can lead to bleeding under the skin and purple-colored spots called purpura.

In many cases, the disorder is passed down through families (inherited). The condition also may be related to:

SymptomsSigns and testsTreatment

Plasma exchange (plasmapheresis) is used to remove the abnormal antibody from the blood and replace the missing enzyme.

First, you will have your blood drawn as if you were donating blood.The plasma portion of the blood will be passed through a cell separator. The remaining portion of the blood will be saved. Plasma will be added to it, and the blood will be returned to you through a transfusion.

This treatment is repeated daily until blood tests show improvement. People who do not respond to this treatment, or who have frequent recurrences, may need to have surgery to remove their spleen. Or, they may need to get drugs that suppress the immune system (such as corticosteroids).

Expectations (prognosis)

Plasma exchange has improved the outcome of this disease. Most patients now recover completely. However, some people can die from this disease, especially if it is not found immediately. In people who don't recover, this condition can become long-term (chronic).

Complications
  • Kidney failure
  • Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia)
  • Low red blood cell count (caused by the premature breakdown of red blood cells)
  • Nervous system problems
  • Severe bleeding (hemorrhage)
  • Stroke
Calling your health care provider

Call your health care provider if you have any unexplained bleeding.

Prevention

Because the cause is unknown, there is no known way to prevent this condition.

References

Schafer A. Hemorrhagic disorders: Abnormalities of platelet and vascular function. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa:Saunders Elsevier;2007:chap 179.

User Avatar

Wiki User

14y ago

What else can I help you with?

Related Questions

What does TTP stand for?

Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP). It's a rare blood disorder that effects your platlets and organs


Can a person drive after treatment for Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura?

If you aren't in danger of going unconscious while driving then you should be able to drive.


What is the medical term meaning severe fever and very small pinpoint hemorrhages under the skin?

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP)


What is TTP sickness?

It is Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura. In this process, blood clots (or thromboses) form in small blood vessels, leading to low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia) in the blood, along with skin manifestations (purpura).


What is Throbotic Thromboytopenic purpura?

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a rare blood disorder characterized by excessive clotting throughout the body's small blood vessels. This clotting can lead to a decrease in platelet count, causing anemia and symptoms like bruising, bleeding, and organ damage. TTP is considered a medical emergency and requires prompt treatment to prevent complications.


What is thrombotic purpura?

a rare blood disorder


What autoimmune disorder results in destruction of platelets?

idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura


Why is your foot hurting after injecting opana?

because your not supposed to inject it. If you injected the new formulation, go to the hospital immediately and tell them what you did. Shooting the new opana can cause thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, which is deadly in 90%+ cases that arent treated


What is Autoimmune thrombocytopenic purpura?

It is a disorder in which the immune system targets and destroys blood platelets


What is immune thrombocytopenic purpura?

its when you have a low platelet count and become at risk of bruising or bleeding. they dont know what causes it. it can go away fast or it can become chronic. its more common among infants and elders than teens and young adults. its no fun. :(


What are the symptoms of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura?

Acute ITP is characterized by bleeding into the skin or from the nose, mouth, digestive tract, or urinary tract. The onset is usually sudden. Bleeding into the skin takes the form of purpura or petechiae. Purpura is a purplish or reddish-brown.


What population groups tend to get idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura?

ITP does not appear to be related to race, lifestyle, climate, or environmental factors.