In this article, we will discuss the Diagnosis of Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura. So, let’s get started.
Investigations/Diagnosis
- Hemoglobin level is low
- Platelet count is low
- PBF shows fragmented RBCs or schistocytes- a pathognomonic finding. Reticulocyte count is raised.
- Test for hemolysis: Serum LDH levels are raised due to intravascular hemolysis. Hemoglobinuria may be present. There is raised indirect bilirubin. Haptoglobin levels are reduced. Direct Coomb’s test is negative.
- Test for coagulation such as PT, PTT, fibrinogen level and fibrin split products are usually normal or only midly abnormal.
- Reduction in vWPCP activity
- Tissue Biopsy: Biopsies of skin, muscles, gingiva, lymph node may demonstrate fibrin thrombi within arterioles
- Bone marrow may be hypocellular.