DiseaseInjuryNutritionPoison
Special TopicSurgerySymptomsTest
2
4
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
Blood cells
Blood cells
OverviewSymptomsTreatmentPrevention

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura

Definition:
TTP is a disorder of the blood characterized by low platelets, low red blood cell count (caused by premature breakdown of the cells), and neurological abnormalities.

Alternative Names:
TTP

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

This disease is seen most commonly in adults from 20 to 50 years old, with women affected slightly more often than men. Purpura refers to the characteristic bleeding that occurs beneath the skin, or in mucous membranes, which produces bruises or a red rash-like appearance. A similar condition in children is hemolytic-uremic syndrome.

The disease may be precipitated by the use of estrogen or by pregnancy. It is frequently preceded by a viral infection. It is also associated with HIV infection. The neurological symptoms associated with this disease may vary over several minutes and include headaches, confusion, speech changes, and alterations in consciousness, which vary from lethargy to coma. People may be very ill with this disorder, and kidney abnormalities may develop. The cause is unknown.

Risk factors are being between 20 and 50 years old, recent estrogen use or pregnancy, and HIV infection. The incidence is 4 out of 100,000 people.



Review Date: 6/5/2003
Reviewed By: Ezra E. W. Cohen, M.D., Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2003 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

adam.com