Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
Article Abstract:
Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura is a rare disorder characterized by an increased number of platelets (a blood component) resulting in embolism (the obstruction of blood vessels by foreign particles or a blood clot) and thrombosis (formation of blood clots) in the small blood vessels of the brain. Neurological symptoms include aphasia (the inability to communicate through speech, writing or signs due to impaired brain function), blindness, and convulsions. A case is described of a 27-year-old man who was admitted to the hospital with delirium. Based on blood and bone marrow findings, he was diagnosed with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura and treated with the steroid drug methylprednisolone. The patient failed to improve and was placed on plasmapheresis, a process in which blood is removed and separated into cellular elements. The red blood cells are then concentrated, suspended into physiological salt solution, and reinjected into the patient. With repeated use of plasmapheresis, the patient's blood values gradually improved and he was discharged on drug therapy with prednisone. Along with this case study, the diagnosis, progression, and therapy for thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura are described. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1991
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Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
Article Abstract:
A clinical study of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura disease, which occurs primarily in adults with reference to its evaluation, management and diagnosis, is presented. Results reveals that as thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura is uncommon, a high index of suspicion is required for rapid diagnosis and prompt initiation of plasma-exchange treatment.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 2006
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AMG 531, a thrombopoiesis-stimulating protein, for chronic ITP
Article Abstract:
The safety and efficacy of treatment with a novel thrombopoiesis-stimulating protein, AMG 531 (Amgen), in patients with immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) are evaluated. The results have shown that AMG 531 caused no major adverse events and increased platelet counts in patients with ITP.
Publication Name: The New England Journal of Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0028-4793
Year: 2006
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