Reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome in a case of adult onset Still's disease with concurrent thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura: response to high dose immunoglobulin infusions

J Assoc Physicians India. 2012 Nov:60:59-62.

Abstract

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a multisystem disorder characterized by a pentad consisting of thrombocytopenic, microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, renal dysfunction, neurological signs and fever. Coexistence of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura and Adult Onset Still's Disease (AOSD) is extremely rare. We report a case of 18 year old girl with AOSD who developed TTP. Neuroimaging of brain demonstrated white matter edema consistent with reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome (RPLS). Complete recovery occurred with prompt anti-hypertensive treatment and high dose immunoglobulin infusions (IVIg). Plasma exchange is the standard of care and the first line treatment for patient with TTP. We used IVIg alone in our case and this showed a gratifying response. Use of IVIG before considering plasmapharesis is justifiable or not requires randomized control clinical trials. This should determine the optimal therapeutic strategies for TTP.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones / therapeutic use
  • Antihypertensive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous / therapeutic use
  • Immunologic Factors / therapeutic use
  • Posterior Leukoencephalopathy Syndrome / complications*
  • Posterior Leukoencephalopathy Syndrome / drug therapy
  • Purpura, Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic / complications*
  • Purpura, Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic / drug therapy
  • Still's Disease, Adult-Onset / complications*
  • Still's Disease, Adult-Onset / drug therapy

Substances

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones
  • Antihypertensive Agents
  • Immunoglobulins, Intravenous
  • Immunologic Factors