Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Presenting as Thrombotic Thrombocytopenia Purpura: How Close Is Close Enough?
2011

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura

publication Evidence: low

Author Information

Author(s): Cesar A. Perez, Nabil Abdo, Anuj Shrestha, Edgardo S. Santos

Primary Institution: University of Miami Miller School of Medicine

Hypothesis

How does thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) present in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)?

Conclusion

The coexistence of TTP and SLE can lead to higher mortality, emphasizing the need for prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Supporting Evidence

  • TTP can present in approximately 2% of patients with SLE.
  • Prompt treatment with plasma exchange and corticosteroids improved the patient's condition.
  • The mortality of TTP has decreased dramatically with treatment.
  • ADAMTS-13 activity was found to be below 5% in the patient.
  • Coexistence of TTP and SLE can complicate diagnosis and treatment.

Takeaway

This study talks about a young woman who got very sick from a rare blood disease and was later found to have lupus, showing that these two conditions can happen together.

Methodology

Case report of a 19-year-old female with TTP and subsequent diagnosis of SLE.

Potential Biases

Potential bias in diagnosis due to overlapping symptoms of TTP and SLE.

Limitations

The study is based on a single case report, limiting generalizability.

Participant Demographics

19-year-old African American female.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1155/2011/267508

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