[Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura treated with prostacyclin. Apropos of 2 case reports]

The syndrome of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) has an uncertain course, is often fatal, and its pathogenesis is obscure. None of the treatments suggested is of proven efficacy. Two cases of TTP are reported with a favourable outcome probably due to continuous intravenous perfusion of prostacyclin combined with antiplatelet drugs for several days, after steroids, plasmapheresis and fresh plasma had failed. The two patients are at present in complete remission after 8 and 20 months under prophylactic treatment with salicylate and dipyridamole.