Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura/TTP
Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP), Blood Clot Disorder, Plavix Side Effects Lawsuit
Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP): Blood-Coagulation Disorder, Low Platelet Count, Plavix Side Effect
Parker Waichman LLP, a national personal injury law firm, is currently investigating Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP) cases based upon side effects from the use of Plavix (generic: clopidogrel bisulfate) and is offering free case evaluations for victims affected by use of the defective drug. If you have been diagnosed with Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP) as a result of taking Plavix, we urge you to contact us by completing the form on the right or calling our experienced defective drug attorneys at 1-800-LAW-INFO (1-800-529-4636).
Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP), Plavix Link
Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP) is a rare blood condition that is characterized by the formation of small blood clots within the circulatory system resulting the consumption of platelets and creates a low platelet count. The blood clots may block blood vessels limiting blood flow to the brain, kidneys or heart. This can also cause bleeding into the skin, prolonged bleeding from cuts and internal bleeding.
Plavix is a blood thinner approved for the purpose of preventing blood clots, heart attacks and strokes. However, it has been reported that Plavix users had an increased risk of moderate and serious bleeding with several studies finding that the use of Plavix amongst users have an alarmingly high rate of hemorrhaging, cerebral and gastrontestinal bleeding and Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP). The cerebral and gastrointestinal bleeding were considered to be serious enough to be life-threatening.
The defective drug attorneys at the personal injury law firm of Parker, Waichman, LLP are offering free legal consultations to victims of Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP) that were taking Plavix. We urge you to contact our Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP) lawyers today to protect your legal rights.
Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP) Symptoms
Blood cells from a patient with TTP. Photo courtesy: University of Oklahoma/health Sciences Center
The picture at left is a microscopic view of blood cells from a patient with TTP. There are no platelets where there should be 10 to 20 platelets in this photo. Notice the broken shapes of some of the red blood cells as compared to the normal red blood cells in the image. This is the result of blood trying to flow through partially obstructed blood vessels is an important part of the diagnosis.
Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP) symptoms may be subtle at first, beginning with malaise, fever, headaches and in some cases diarrhea. As the condition progresses, clots will begin to form within blood vessels and platelets will be consumed. Clots formed within the circulation can temporarily disrupt local blood supply. TTP preferentially affects the blood vessels of the brain and kidneys affecting the patient who may experience the following:
- Headaches
- Confusion
- Difficulty Speaking
- Transient paralysis
- Numbness
A diagnosis of TTP is made based upon observation of symptoms followed by blood tests. As the disease progresses, other symptoms may include spontaneous bruising or bleeding, the most common bleeding sites are from the nose or gums.
Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP) Treatment
TTP treatment involves meesting with blood disorder specialist (hematologist) and may require hospitalization. A exchange of plasma (plasmapheresis) is the most common treatment for Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura and is usually necessary to occur daily for approximately one week. Additional TTP treatment could also include the following:
- Corticosteroids - used in combination with plasma exchange
- Transfusion of red blood cells
- Folic Acid - vitamin required for healthy formation of red blood cells
- Platelets may be given if bleeding is life threatening
- Vaccination for Hepatitis B - Plasma exchange requires multiple blood donors. While all blood is screened, there is a small risk of acquiring the disease and should be given as soon as practical
- Aspirin
Support Group for Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP) Sufferers
If you have been diagnosed with with TTP or recovering from the blood disease, you should know that the recovery process is a long road. A support group for TTP sufferers is: TTP Network
Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP) Victims - Legal Help
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP) while taking Plavix, you may have valuable legal rights. Parker Waichman Allonso wants you to discuss your case with one of our Plavix side effect lawyers, fill out our online form, or call 1-800-LAW-INFO (1-800-529-4636) today.
