Abstract
We describe a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) who developed severe and acute thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). Detection of the fragmentation of peripheral red blood cells (RBC) helped the early diagnosis of TTP and the patient was rescued by extensive plasma exchange started promptly after the diagnosis. Because manifestations of TTP are similar to those in SLE, it is sometimes difficult to make an accurate diagnosis of TTP in SLE patients. We emphasise here the significance of the early diagnosis of TTP by the observation of fragmented RBC and the intensive therapy, including plasma exchange, for this very severe condition.
Article PDF
Similar content being viewed by others
Avoid common mistakes on your manuscript.
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Corresponding author
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Hamasaki, K., Mimura, T., Kanda, H. et al. Systemic lupus erythematosus and thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura: a case report and literature review. Clin Rheumatol 22, 355–358 (2003). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10067-003-0742-1
Received:
Accepted:
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10067-003-0742-1