Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura: The Daily PANCE Blueprint

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Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura: The Daily PANCE Blueprint

What is the first-line treatment for a patient diagnosed with acute thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura?

A. Corticosteroids
B. Plasma exchange therapy
C. Platelet transfusion
D. Rituximab
E. Splenectomy

Answer and topic summary

The answer is B. Plasma exchange therapy

Plasma exchange therapy is the first-line treatment for acute TTP. This treatment rapidly removes the large von Willebrand factor multimers and the antibodies against ADAMTS13 (in acquired cases) and replenishes the ADAMTS13 enzyme, effectively treating the underlying pathology of TTP.

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Smarty PANCE Content Blueprint Review:

Covered under ⇒ PANCE Blueprint Hematology  ⇒ Coagulation Disorders (PEARLS) ⇒ Thrombocytopenia (Pearls) ⇒ Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura