Computed tomographic brain scan of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura

Computed tomographic (CT) brain scan findings in a patient with severe thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) are described. Multiple scattered lucencies were noted which correlated with thrombotic occlusions found at autopsy. In this patient, the neurologic manifestations of TTP preceded the haemolytic anaemia. In the correct clinical setting, multiple areas of lucency should suggest multiple infarcts secondary to thrombotic vessel occlusions as a diagnostic possibility.