Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 5, 2025
Sodium Taurocholate Induced Severe Acute Pancreatitis in C57BL/6 Mice
Published on: June 28, 2021
An Atypical Case of Thrombotic Microangiopathy Secondary to Acute Pancreatitis
Andrew Vissing1,2, Arnaud Wautlet1,2, Shivi Jain1
1Department of Internal Medicine, Rush University Medical Center.
Abstract:
Thrombotic microangiopathies (TMAs) are a group of disorders characterized by microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and end-organ damage. It can often be challenging to determine the underlying etiology. Our patient presented with acute pancreatitis and later developed thrombocytopenia and hemolytic anemia, along with acute renal failure. A working diagnosis of an atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome was made; however, he improved clinically and eculizumab was not started. Workup for the atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome was unrevealing. The authors propose that the pancreatitis triggered a secondary TMA, which although rare, has previously been described in the literature. This case illustrates the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges associated with TMAs.
Insights
Thrombotic microangiopathies (TMAs) can be difficult to diagnose. This case suggests acute pancreatitis may trigger secondary TMAs, highlighting diagnostic challenges.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Nephrology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Thrombotic microangiopathies (TMAs) encompass a spectrum of disorders including microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and end-organ damage.
- Determining the precise etiology of TMAs can be diagnostically challenging.
- Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) is one form of TMA requiring specific diagnostic considerations.
Observation:
- A patient presented with acute pancreatitis, followed by the development of thrombocytopenia, hemolytic anemia, and acute renal failure.
- Initial clinical presentation suggested atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome.
- The patient showed clinical improvement, and specific aHUS treatment was not initiated.
Findings:
- Extensive workup for atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome yielded inconclusive results.
- The authors propose that the patient's acute pancreatitis precipitated a secondary TMA.
- This pancreatitis-induced TMA, though rare, has been documented in medical literature.
Implications:
- This case underscores the complex diagnostic and therapeutic hurdles in managing TMAs.
- Recognizing pancreatitis as a potential trigger for secondary TMA is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
- Further research into TMA etiologies and management strategies is warranted.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Acute Pancreatitis II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
01:27Acute Pancreatitis I: Introduction
Acute pancreatitis is characterized by rapid inflammation of the pancreas, often caused by factors like gallstone blockage or excessive alcohol consumption. Chronic pancreatitis, on the other hand, is a slow, progressive inflammation that may result from long-term alcohol abuse, obstructions in the pancreatic duct, or genetic factors.
The causes of acute pancreatitis include:
01:24Chronic Pancreatitis I: Introduction
Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas, which occurs when the immune system becomes active and causes swelling, pain, and disruptions in organ function. Pancreatitis can manifest as either an acute or chronic condition.
Acute pancreatitis arises suddenly and lasts for a brief duration, while chronic pancreatitis is a long-term affliction...
01:29Chronic Pancreatitis II: Collaborative Care
Assessment:
01:30Peripheral Artery Disease I: Introduction
01:17Gastritis-II: Pathophysiology
In acute gastritis, the gastric mucosa becomes swollen and red and undergoes superficial erosion. Superficial ulceration may lead to bleeding.
In chronic gastritis, persistent or repeated insults lead to chronic inflammatory changes and, eventually, thinning or atrophy of the gastric tissue.
Gastritis can stem from various causes, each...