Journal List > Korean J Obstet Gynecol > v.53(5) > 1006417

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Yoon, Lee, Kim, Ahn, and Shin: Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura in three pregnancies
Case Report
Korean Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Korean Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology 2010; 53(5): 434-442.

Published online: 31 May 2010

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5468/kjog.2010.53.5.434

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura in three pregnancies

Won Sik Yoon, M.D., Jeong Won Lee, M.D., Yeon Hee Kim, M.D., Hyun Young Ahn, M.D., Jong Chul Shin, M.D.

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Catholic University of Korea School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.

Corresponding author (sono@catholic.ac.kr)

Received 19 February 2010       Accepted 12 April 2010

Copyright © 2010 Korean Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Abstract

Thromobotic thrombocytopenic purpura-hemolytic uremic syndrome (TTP-HUS), characterized by microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, fever, central nervous system abnormalities, and renal dysfunction, is severe multisystem disorder. TTP-HUS occurs predominantly in the reproductive aged-women, associated with poor prognosis. Although the morbidity and mortality have been significantly decreased by using plasma exchange therapy, refractory TTP-HUS remains a tremendous problem. It is crucial to differentiate other microangiopathic hemolytic anemia disease with a confusing presentation and to perform the immediate plasmapheresis. We have experienced three cases, which were initially diagnosed as HELLP syndrome or immune thrombocytopenic purpura. Despite of aggressive plasmapheresis, two women died. We present these cases with a review of the literature on pregnancy-associated thrombotic microangiopathy, including ADAMTS-13 activity assay as a new diagnostic test.

Keywords: Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, HELLP Syndrome, Pre-Eclampsia, ADAMTS-13, Pregnancy complications, Hematologic/pathology/therapy

Figures and Tables

Fig. 1
Schistocytes are scattered in peripheral blood smear.
kjog-53-434-g001
Fig. 2
Abdominal CT shows massive ascites (black arrow), acute pancreatitis (white arrow) and infrarenal inferior vena cava thrombosis (dotted arrow).
kjog-53-434-g002
Table 1
Patient's characteristics
kjog-53-434-i001

TTP: thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, IVC: inferior vena cava, FDIU: fetal death In Utero.

Table 2
Characteristics of pathophysiological features in microangiopathic hemolytic anemia
kjog-53-434-i002

TTP: thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, HUS: hemolytic uremic syndrome, MAHA: microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, CNS: central Nervous System.

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