What Is Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura?
TTP is a rare, life-threatening blood disorder. In TTP, blood clots form in small blood vessels throughout your body. The clots can limit or block the flow of blood to your organs, such as your brain, kidneys, and heart. This can prevent your organs from working properly and can damage your organs.
The increased clotting that occurs in TTP also uses up your platelets. Platelets are tiny blood cells that help form blood clots. These cell fragments stick together to seal small cuts and breaks in your blood vessels to stop bleeding. When your platelets are used up, you do not have enough platelets to form blood clots when necessary. This may cause bleeding and bruising.
- “Thrombotic” refers to the blood clots that form.
- “Thrombocytopenic” means the blood has a lower-than-normal platelet count.
- “Purpura” refers to purple bruises caused by bleeding under your skin.
TTP usually occurs suddenly and lasts for days or weeks, but it can continue for months. TTP can also cause red blood cells to break apart faster than your body can replace them. This leads to a rare form of anemia called hemolytic anemia.
TTP can be fatal. Without treatment, it can cause long-term problems, such as brain damage or a stroke.
Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)