Systemic lupus erythematosus and thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura: a case report

Background. Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a multisystem disorder characterised by platelet aggregation causing microvascular occlusion. Early diagnosis and utilization of plasmapheresis can provide an improvement in prognosis. Case report. A 17 year old male with classical findings of TTP was later diagnosed as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Plasmapheresis resulted in the significant amelioration of the course. Conclusion. The coexistence of TTP and SLE may facilitate a better understanding of in the pathophysiology of TTP. These association may provide the role of autoimmunity in TTP. SLE should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients with TTP because of therapeutic implications. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.