Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura--remission following splenectomy. Report of a case and review of the literature

Abstract

A case of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura in which sustained remission followed splenectomy is described. Strong serologic evidence of concurrent infection with Mycoplasma pneumoniae was found in this case. Previously reported cases in which thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura has been associated with infections are reviewed. An approach to management of this unusual and frequently fetal condition, is suggested, based on a detailed review of the recent literature.