Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura: a rare but potential life-threateningcomplication following ticlopidine administration

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a known, although rare, compli cation of ticlopidine treatment. It typically appears within the first days or weeks after initiation of therapy. We describe a case of TTP in a 75-year-old patient, due to ticlopidine, occ urring three weeks after coronary stent implantation. The patient responded favourably to fresh frozen plasma exchanges. We are reporting this case to emphasize that prognosis depends on prompt di agnosis and early treatment, implying careful biochemical monitoring.