Thrombotic microangiopathy

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Thrombotic microangiopathy
Thrombotic microangiopathy under very high magnification
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Fatigue, pallor, jaundice, confusion, seizures, renal failure
Complications	Acute kidney injury, stroke, heart failure
Onset	Sudden
Duration	Variable
Types	N/A
Causes	Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, hemolytic-uremic syndrome, malignant hypertension, scleroderma, antiphospholipid syndrome
Risks	Genetic predisposition, autoimmune disorders, infections, medications
Diagnosis	Blood tests, urinalysis, kidney biopsy
Differential diagnosis	Disseminated intravascular coagulation, hemolytic anemia, vasculitis
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Plasma exchange, immunosuppressive therapy, antihypertensive drugs
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Variable, depends on underlying cause and treatment
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

Thrombotic Microangiopathy (TMA) is a pathological process that results in thrombosis in capillaries and arterioles, due to an endothelial cell injury. It is characterized by microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and organ dysfunction.

Causes

TMA can be caused by several factors, including genetic disorders, drugs, and infections. It can also be associated with malignancies, transplant rejection, and pregnancy.

Pathophysiology

The pathophysiology of TMA involves the damage to the endothelial cells lining the blood vessels. This damage can be caused by various factors, such as toxins, drugs, infections, and immune reactions. The damaged endothelial cells then expose the underlying tissue factor, which triggers the coagulation cascade and leads to the formation of thrombi.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of TMA is based on the presence of microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and organ dysfunction. Additional tests may include blood tests, urinalysis, and imaging studies.

Treatment

The treatment of TMA depends on the underlying cause. It may include plasma exchange, immunosuppressive therapy, and supportive care. In severe cases, dialysis or transplantation may be required.

Prognosis

The prognosis of TMA varies depending on the underlying cause and the patient's response to treatment. In some cases, it can be life-threatening.

See also

• Hemolytic-uremic syndrome
• Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
• Disseminated intravascular coagulation