What is the diagnosis and treatment for Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP)?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: March 16, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

From the FDA Drug Label

CABLIVI is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with acquired thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (aTTP), in combination with plasma exchange and immunosuppressive therapy. The efficacy of CABLIVI for the treatment of adult patients with acquired thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (aTTP) in combination with plasma exchange and immunosuppressive therapy was established in a pivotal multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial (HERCULES)

The diagnosis of Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP) is not directly stated in the provided drug labels. The treatment for TTP is caplacizumab (CABLIVI) in combination with plasma exchange and immunosuppressive therapy 1, 1, 1. Key points about the treatment include:

  • CABLIVI is administered as an 11 mg bolus intravenous injection prior to the first plasma exchange, followed by a daily subcutaneous injection of 11 mg after completion of plasma exchange, for the duration of the daily plasma exchange period and for 30 days thereafter.
  • Treatment may be extended for 7 day intervals for a maximum of 28 days if signs of persistent underlying disease remain present.

From the Research

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a rare, life-threatening blood disorder requiring immediate treatment with plasma exchange therapy (PEX), as evidenced by the most recent study 2. The standard approach involves daily PEX (1-1.5 plasma volumes) combined with corticosteroids (methylprednisolone 1 mg/kg/day or prednisone 1 mg/kg/day) [ 3, 2 ]. Some studies suggest that caplacizumab and rituximab may be beneficial in certain cases of TTP [not directly mentioned in provided studies, but relevant to current medical knowledge]. Key points to consider in the diagnosis and treatment of TTP include:

  • TTP is characterized by thrombocytopenia, microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, and often neurological abnormalities, renal dysfunction, and fever [ 3, 2, 4 ]
  • Plasma exchange is the mainstay of treatment and should be initiated promptly [ 3, 2, 5, 6 ]
  • The goal of treatment is to normalize the platelet count and prevent further thrombotic complications [ 3, 2 ]
  • Daily plasma exchange should be continued until the platelet count exceeds 150,000/μL for at least 2 consecutive days, with ADAMTS13 activity monitoring to guide treatment duration [ 3, 2 ]
  • TTP can be fatal if left untreated, but with prompt treatment, survival rates can exceed 80% [ 3, 2, 6 ]

References

Research

[Not Available].

La Tunisie medicale, 2024

Research

Therapeutic plasma exchange in patients with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura: a retrospective multicenter study.

Transfusion and apheresis science : official journal of the World Apheresis Association : official journal of the European Society for Haemapheresis, 2013

Research

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura: a hematological emergency.

The Journal of emergency medicine, 2012

Research

Therapeutic plasma exchange for the treatment of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura: a retrospective multicenter study.

Transfusion and apheresis science : official journal of the World Apheresis Association : official journal of the European Society for Haemapheresis, 2007

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.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.