What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura?
Blood clots, a low platelet count, and damaged red blood cells cause the signs and symptoms of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). The signs and symptoms include: • Purplish bruises on the skin or mucous membranes (such as on the mouth) due to bleeding under the skin. These bruises are called purpura. • Pinpoint-sized red or purple dots on the skin that often are found in groups and may look like a rash. The spots, called petechiae, are due to bleeding under the skin. • Paleness or jaundice (a yellowish color of the skin or whites of the eyes). • Fatigue (feeling very tired and weak). • Fever. • A fast heart rate or shortness of breath. • Headache, speech changes, confusion, coma, stroke, or seizure. • A low amount of urine, or protein or blood in the urine. If you’ve had TTP and have any of these signs and symptoms, you may be having a relapse (flareup). Talk with your doctor about when to call him or her or seek emergency care.
