[Management of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura in two French centers: A series of 27 patients].

INTRODUCTION

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a thrombotic microangiopathy due to platelet microthrombosis involved in multiple systems associated with multiple organ dysfunctions and often severe disease course.

METHODS

In order to enhance the understanding of TTP, the clinical features, laboratory characteristics, treatment and outcome of 27 patients with TTP were retrospectively analyzed and investigated in two centres (Annecy and Grenoble).

RESULTS

All the 27 patients presented with haemolytic anemia and decreased platelet counts. Eight patients had fever. Thirteen patients had kidney involvement including proteinuria and renal function abnormalities. Eighteen patients had neurological manifestations. Association of the 5 characteristic features of TTP was rarely found (11%) which could lead to diagnosis delay. The von Willebrand factor-cleaving protease (ADAMTS13) activity was less than 10% in all patients. At the same time, plasma ADAMTS13 inhibitors were detected in 20 patients out of the 27. After treatment with plasma exchange, glucocorticoid and rituximab, 23 patients (85%) achieved complete remission. Four patients died, in which two cases were secondary to late diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

TTP is a thrombotic microangiopathy often associated with multiple organ dysfunctions. Salvage therapy, based on some studies experiences and discussed with the Reference Center, could help getting answers in most severe cases. Awareness of physicians is an important step to further limit any delay in medical care, and to further improve the prognosis of patients with TTP.