Approaches to acquired thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura management in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Acquired thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (aTTP) is a life-threatening microangiopathy usually characterized by microangiopathic hemolytic anemic, thrombocytopenia, and end-organ ischemia associated with disseminated microvascular platelet-rich thrombi and severe deficiency (activity <10%) of A Disintegrin-like And Metalloprotease with ThromboSpondin Type 1 Motif No. 13 (ADAMTS13). It is a medical emergency, and if left untreated, acute mortality is as high as 90%. This review article is a narrative review based on available literature. In addition, the key discussions of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia experts and members of “Approaches to aTTP Management” Advisory Board meeting held on October 16, 2020, have been incorporated as expert opinions. It was agreed that treatment should be started based on the presumptive diagnosis and continued until remission or an alternate diagnosis is established. Use of caplacizumab in addition to therapeutic plasma exchange and immunosuppression is recommended in confirmed aTTP episodes.

Keywords

• a disintegrin-like and metalloprotease with thrombospondin type 1 motif no. 13
• acquired thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
• caplacizumab
• treatment