Interrelation between Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura.

Features suggestive of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) are known to occur in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We report a patient who had TTP which resolved with plasma exchange and immunosuppression, but presented three years later with features of SLE. The diagnosis satisfied all the required criteria in both instances. The interrelationship between the two conditions is discussed.