Separate (Asynchronous) Therapeutic Plasma Exchange (TPE) and Plasma Transfusion in the Patient with Severe TPE Complications: A Case Report

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a medical condition characterized by a decreased activity of the ADAMTS13 protease for cleaving the von Willebrand factor. It contributes to thrombotic microangiopathy. In this report, we described a case of TTP followed by significant adverse effects during therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) treatment. The patient received TPE with a time interval from plasma transfusion. A 30-year-old female was evaluated for headaches and bruises on her arms and legs. Laboratory testing revealed thrombocytopenia and anemia. The identification of thrombocytopenia with severe schistocytosis was verified by the analysis of a peripheral blood smear. After confirming a diagnosis of TTP, TPE was performed as therapy. To avoid the complications arising during the previous TPE sessions, we conducted plasma exchange with albumin followed by FFP injection, with a six-hour interval between them. This strategy successfully alleviated the patient's symptoms. Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) with a time interval from plasma transfusion can be successfully used in patients with severe TPE complications.