Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura

A patient with the classical findings of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) was treated with heparin sodium, splenectomy, and highdose steroids without appreciable benefit. In the face of continued deterioration, hemodialysis was instituted. This was followed by clinical improvement and eventual recovery of the patient. We suggest that this form of treatment should be attempted on other patients with TTP who appear not to be responding to the more conventional forms of therapy.