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A Metadata Extraction Approach for Clinical Case Reports to Enable Advanced Understanding of Biomedical Concepts
Published on: September 20, 2018
Altered mental status and a not-so-benign rash.
Aakash N Bodhit1, Latha Ganti Stead
1Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA.
Case Reports in Emergency Medicine
|January 18, 2013
Summary
Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP) is a rare condition. Early diagnosis and treatment with plasmapheresis are crucial for preventing mortality in TTP patients.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Neurology
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP) is a rare thrombotic microangiopathy characterized by thrombocytopenia, microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, and organ damage.
- TTP can present with diverse neurological symptoms, including altered mental status, which can mimic other neurological emergencies.
Observation:
- An 81-year-old female presented with altered mental status, dizziness, slurred speech, and weakness.
- Physical examination revealed lower extremity petechiae. Laboratory tests showed thrombocytopenia, schistocytes on peripheral blood smear, and impaired renal function.
- Cranial CT scan was unremarkable, ruling out acute intracranial pathology.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with TTP based on clinical and laboratory findings.
- Despite transfer to the ICU, the patient's condition deteriorated, and she ultimately passed away.
- This case highlights the potential for TTP to present with severe neurological symptoms.
Implications:
- Early recognition of TTP in the Emergency Department is critical for timely intervention.
- Prompt initiation of plasmapheresis is essential for improving outcomes and reducing mortality in TTP.
- Healthcare providers must maintain a high index of suspicion for TTP in patients with unexplained neurological changes and thrombocytopenia.
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