A case of immune thrombocytopenic purpura with prolonged aPTT time: A clotter hidden in a bleeder?

Med J Malaysia. 2017 Dec;72(6):365-366.

Abstract

We report the case of a 23-year-old woman who presented with prolonged menstruation and multiple bruises on the limbs and trunk. Investigations revealed severe thrombocytopenia and deranged coagulation profile with markedly prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT). Lupus anticoagulant, anti-cardiolipin antibody and anti-beta-2-glycoprotein 1 antibody were positive. She was diagnosed with Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP) with positive antiphospholipid antibody serology and given a course of intravenous methylprednisolone and tapering doses of oral prednisolone. She was steroid free and had no bleeding or thrombotic event over two years follow up.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / administration & dosage
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Methylprednisolone / administration & dosage
  • Partial Thromboplastin Time
  • Purpura, Thrombocytopenic, Idiopathic / drug therapy*
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Methylprednisolone