Severe Staphylococcus aureus Endocarditis Presenting as Peripartum Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a life-threatening illness that occurs in both pregnant and non-pregnant women. Several other conditions can mimic the disease, which makes the diagnosis challenging.

We describe a case of severe Staphylococcus aureus endocarditis that initially presented as peripartum TTP in a 39-year-old woman at 29+6 weeks' gestation. We give an overview of the diagnostic considerations and management of thrombocytopenia in pregnancy and review the literature related to TTP and peripartum infective endocarditis.

Given the significant differences in definitive therapies for the spectrum of thrombocytopenic conditions that occur in pregnancy, timely and accurate diagnosis of TTP is critical for optimal management.