INTRODUCTION: Causes of acquired thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) are multiple and rarely iatrogenic. CASE REPORT: A 40-year-old, HIV and hepatitis C virus co-infected woman was treated with interferon and ribavirine and developed a TTP confirmed by the presence of anti-ADAMTS 13 antibodies. The outcome was favourable when treatment was discontinued and rituximab infusion administered. CONCLUSION: The occurrence of anemia and thrombocytopenia in patients treated with interferon and ribavirine is not always related to direct toxicities of these treatments. The ADAMS 13 testing may help the clinician to diagnose iatrogenic acquired TTP.
INTRODUCTION: Causes of acquired thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) are multiple and rarely iatrogenic. CASE REPORT: A 40-year-old, HIV and hepatitis C virus co-infectedwoman was treated with interferon and ribavirine and developed a TTP confirmed by the presence of anti-ADAMTS 13 antibodies. The outcome was favourable when treatment was discontinued and rituximab infusion administered. CONCLUSION: The occurrence of anemia and thrombocytopenia in patients treated with interferon and ribavirine is not always related to direct toxicities of these treatments. The ADAMS 13 testing may help the clinician to diagnose iatrogenic acquired TTP.