A Case of Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura(TTP), Presenting Multiple Gross Infarction

ABSTRACT

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is an uncommon disorder, frequently fatal, characterized by a pentad of thrombocytopenia, microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, fluctuating neurologic symptoms, fever, and renal disease. TTP is characterized by widespread noninflammatory thrombotic occlusions of arterioles and capillaries with material containing fibrin and platelets. Generally, gross infarct is rare in the patient with TTP. We present a case of TTP with multiple gross infarcts on brain CT scan. A 53-year-old-man was presented with left hemiparesis and confused mentality. On laboratory study, he had microangiopathic hemolytic anemia & thrombocytopenia. Brain CT showed multiple gross infarct areas in the right basal ganglia, right parietal lobe and right cerebellar hemisphere. When managing the patient with acute stroke syndrome, we should consider TTP as a diagnostic possibility for early proper treatment, even if CT scan of brain show multiple gross infarctions.