What are the diagnostic criteria for Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP)?

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Differential Diagnosis for TTP

  • Single most likely diagnosis
    • Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP): This is the most likely diagnosis given the acronym "TTP" in the question. TTP is a rare blood disorder characterized by the formation of blood clots in small blood vessels throughout the body, which can lead to low platelet counts, microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, and organ dysfunction.
  • Other Likely diagnoses
    • Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS): HUS is another disorder that presents with similar symptoms to TTP, including microangiopathic hemolytic anemia and thrombocytopenia, but it is more commonly associated with acute kidney injury.
    • Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC): DIC is a condition characterized by the widespread formation of blood clots in small blood vessels, which can lead to organ dysfunction and bleeding complications.
  • Do Not Miss
    • Malignant Hypertension: This condition can cause microvascular thrombi and organ damage, similar to TTP, and is essential to recognize due to its potential for severe complications.
    • Sickle Cell Disease with Sickle Cell Crisis: Sickle cell disease can cause microvascular occlusion and organ damage, and it is crucial to consider this diagnosis in patients with a history of sickle cell disease.
    • Antiphospholipid Syndrome: This autoimmune disorder can cause blood clots in small and large vessels, and it is essential to recognize due to its potential for severe complications.
  • Rare diagnoses
    • Atypical HUS (aHUS): aHUS is a rare disorder that presents with similar symptoms to TTP and HUS, but it is not typically associated with diarrhea or infection.
    • Thrombotic Microangiopathy (TMA) associated with pregnancy or postpartum: TMA can occur in pregnant or postpartum women and presents with similar symptoms to TTP.
    • Cobalamin C deficiency: This rare genetic disorder can cause homocystinuria, which can lead to thrombotic microangiopathy and symptoms similar to TTP.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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