Thrombotic Microangiopathies
Clinical Features and Symptoms
Thrombotic Microangiopathies are characterized by small blood vessel thrombosis leading to systemic complications. Key features include hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and organ involvement.
Thrombotic Microangiopathies: Clinical Features and Symptoms
Thrombotic Microangiopathies (TMAs) are a group of disorders characterized by small blood vessel thrombosis, leading to organ damage and systemic complications. The primary causes include endothelial injury, platelet activation, and intravascular coagulation.
Clinical Features
TMAs present with a combination of hematologic and systemic symptoms, including:
- Microangiopathic Hemolytic Anemia (MAHA)
- Thrombocytopenia
- Acute kidney injury
- Neurological disturbances (confusion, seizures)
- Hypertension
Symptoms
Patients with TMAs may exhibit:
- Fatigue and pallor due to anemia
- Petechiae and purpura due to thrombocytopenia
- Decreased urine output and hematuria
- Altered mental status and focal neurological deficits
Diagnosis and Management
Diagnosis is based on clinical suspicion, supported by laboratory tests (peripheral blood smear, LDH, haptoglobin, renal function tests). Treatment includes plasmapheresis, corticosteroids, and specific therapies for underlying causes such as complement inhibition.
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