Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura associated with Brucella infection

Am J Med Sci. 2008 Mar;335(3):230-2. doi: 10.1097/MAJ.0b013e3180d09f19.

Abstract

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is characterized by disseminated thrombotic occlusions located in the microcirculation and a syndrome of microangiopathic hemolytic anemia (MAHA), thrombocytopenia, fever, and renal and neurologic abnormalities. Although several factors such as viral and bacterial pathogens, pancreatitis, drugs, collagen-vascular diseases, cancers, and pregnancy have been reported to be associated with TTP, brucellosis is an exceptional cause of this disorder. We represent a 19-year-old woman applying to our outpatient department with the complaints of headache, fever, sweat, malaise, and jaundice. Clinical signs and laboratory findings were consistent with TTP. Brucella agglutination was found to be 1/320 positive. After the administration of therapeutic plasma exchange, all symptoms and laboratory abnormalities improved dramatically. Antibiotic therapy directed to Brucella infection was initiated and no recurrence of TTP was seen.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Brucellosis / complications*
  • Brucellosis / drug therapy
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Plasma Exchange / methods
  • Purpura, Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic / diagnosis*
  • Purpura, Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic / etiology*
  • Purpura, Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic / therapy
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents