Thrombocytopenia is a condition in which you have a low blood platelet count. Platelets (thrombocytes) are colorless blood cells that help blood clot. Platelets stop bleeding by clumping and forming plugs in blood vessel injuries.
Thrombocytopenia might occur as a result of a bone marrow disorder such as leukemia or an immune system problem. Or it can be a side effect of taking certain medications. It affects both children and adults.
Thrombocytopenia can be mild and cause few signs or symptoms. In rare cases, the number of platelets can be so low that dangerous internal bleeding occurs. Treatment options are available.
Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) may sound like a complicated medical term, but we’re here to break it down for you in simple, easy-to-understand language. In this article, we’ll explain what TTP is, its various types, common causes, symptoms, diagnostic tests, treatment options, and medications. Our aim is to make this complex medical condition accessible to everyone.
What is TTP? TTP, short for Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura, is a rare and serious medical condition that affects your blood. It’s important to know that TTP is a blood disorder, but don’t let the fancy name intimidate you. Let’s explore it step by step.
Types of TTP:
There are two main types of TTP:
- Congenital TTP: This type is rare and usually present from birth due to a genetic mutation.
- Acquired TTP: This is the more common type, and it develops later in life, often as a result of certain triggers.
Causes of TTP:
TTP occurs when there’s a problem with a protein called ADAMTS13, which helps prevent blood clotting. When this protein isn’t working correctly, it can lead to TTP. Here are some common causes and triggers:
Thrombocytopenia means you have fewer than 150,000 platelets per microliter of circulating blood. Because each platelet lives only about 10 days, your body normally renews your platelet supply continually by producing new platelets in your bone marrow.
Thrombocytopenia rarely is inherited; or it can be caused by a number of medications or conditions. Whatever the cause, circulating platelets are reduced by one or more of the following processes: trapping of platelets in the spleen, decreased platelet production or increased destruction of platelets.
Trapped platelets
The spleen is a small organ about the size of your fist situated just below your rib cage on the left side of your abdomen. Normally, your spleen works to fight infection and filter unwanted material from your blood. An enlarged spleen — which can be caused by a number of disorders — can harbor too many platelets, which decreases the number of platelets in circulation.
Decreased production of platelets
Platelets are produced in your bone marrow. Factors that can decrease platelet production include:
- Leukemia and other cancers
- Some types of anemia
- Viral infections, such as hepatitis C or HIV
- Chemotherapy drugs and radiation therapy
- Heavy alcohol consumption
Increased breakdown of platelets
Some conditions can cause your body to use up or destroy platelets faster than they’re produced, leading to a shortage of platelets in your bloodstream. Examples of such conditions include:
- Pregnancy. Thrombocytopenia caused by pregnancy is usually mild and improves soon after childbirth.
- Immune thrombocytopenia. Autoimmune diseases, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, cause this type. The body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys platelets. If the exact cause of this condition isn’t known, it’s called idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura. This type more often affects children.
- Bacteria in the blood. Severe bacterial infections involving the blood (bacteremia) can destroy platelets.
- Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura. This is a rare condition that occurs when small blood clots suddenly form throughout your body, using up large numbers of platelets.
- Hemolytic uremic syndrome. This rare disorder causes a sharp drop in platelets, destruction of red blood cells and impairs kidney function.
- Medications. Certain medications can reduce the number of platelets in your blood. Sometimes a drug confuses the immune system and causes it to destroy platelets. Examples include heparin, quinine, sulfa-containing antibiotics and anticonvulsants.
- Autoimmune disorders: Your immune system may mistakenly attack and destroy ADAMTS13.
- Infections: Certain infections can trigger TTP.
- Medications: Some drugs can increase the risk of TTP.
- Pregnancy: TTP can occur during pregnancy or shortly after giving birth.
- Other medical conditions: Conditions like cancer or organ transplants can also be linked to TTP.
Symptoms of TTP:
TTP can cause a range of symptoms, and it’s important to recognize them early. Common symptoms include:
- Unexplained bruises and purplish spots on the skin (purpura).
- Fatigue and weakness.
- Fever.
- Confusion or changes in mental alertness.
- Shortness of breath.
- Headache.
- Abdominal pain.
- Pale or yellow skin (jaundice).
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly.
Thrombocytopenia signs and symptoms may include:
- Easy or excessive bruising (purpura)
- Superficial bleeding into the skin that appears as a rash of pinpoint-sized reddish-purple spots (petechiae), usually on the lower legs
- Prolonged bleeding from cuts
- Bleeding from your gums or nose
- Blood in urine or stools
- Unusually heavy menstrual flows
- Fatigue
- Enlarged spleen
When to see a doctor
Make an appointment with your doctor if you have signs of thrombocytopenia that worry you.
Bleeding that won’t stop is a medical emergency. Seek immediate help for bleeding that can’t be controlled by the usual first-aid techniques, such as applying pressure to the area.
Diagnostic Tests for TTP:
To diagnose TTP, doctors may use several tests to examine your blood and rule out other conditions. Some common diagnostic tests include:
- Complete Blood Count (CBC): This measures the number of platelets in your blood, which is usually low in TTP.
- Blood Smear: A microscopic examination of your blood to check for abnormal cells.
- ADAMTS13 Activity Test: This test checks the activity of the ADAMTS13 protein.
- Kidney Function Tests: TTP can affect kidney function, so these tests help assess kidney health.
- Coagulation Tests: To evaluate how your blood clots.
Treatment for TTP:
Treatment for TTP aims to stop the formation of blood clots and manage symptoms. Here are some common treatments:
- Plasma Exchange (Plasmapheresis): This procedure removes and replaces the plasma in your blood, which can help remove harmful antibodies and improve clotting.
- Steroids: Medications like corticosteroids may be prescribed to suppress the immune system’s response.
- Immune Globulin: Intravenous immune globulin (IVIG) may be given to boost the immune system.
- Rituximab: This medication can help reduce the autoimmune response.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove clots or damaged tissue.
Drugs Used in TTP Treatment:
Several medications may be used to treat TTP and manage its symptoms. Here are some commonly prescribed drugs:
- Prednisone: A steroid that reduces inflammation.
- Plavix (Clopidogrel): Helps prevent platelets from sticking together.
- Soliris (Eculizumab): A medication that targets the immune system to reduce the risk of TTP episodes.
- Rituxan (Rituximab): Suppresses the immune response.
- Immune Globulin (IVIG): Boosts the immune system’s ability to fight TTP.
Conclusion:
Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP) is a rare but serious blood disorder that can affect anyone. While it may seem complex at first, understanding its types, causes, symptoms, diagnostic tests, and treatment options is essential for early detection and effective management.
If you or someone you know experiences TTP symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention. With proper diagnosis and treatment, TTP can be managed, and its impact on your health minimized. Remember, knowledge is power, and being informed about TTP can make a significant difference in your or your loved one’s journey to recovery.
Disclaimer: Each person’s journey is unique, treatment plan, life style, food habit, hormonal condition, immune system, chronic disease condition, previous medical history is also unique. So always seek the best advice from a qualified medical professional or health care provider before trying any treatments to ensure to find out the best plan for you. This guide is for general information and educational purposes only. If you or someone are suffering from this disease condition bookmark this website or share with someone who might find it useful! Boost your knowledge and stay ahead in your health journey. Thank you for giving your valuable time to read the article.
