abstract
- BACKGROUND: Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a life-threatening illness that occurs in both pregnant and non-pregnant women. Several other conditions can mimic the disease, which makes the diagnosis challenging. CASE: We describe a case of severe Staphylococcus aureus endocarditis that initially presented as peripartum TTP in a 39-year-old woman at 29+6 weeks' gestation. We give an overview of the diagnostic considerations and management of thrombocytopenia in pregnancy and review the literature related to TTP and peripartum infective endocarditis. CONCLUSION: Given the significant differences in definitive therapies for the spectrum of thrombocytopenic conditions that occur in pregnancy, timely and accurate diagnosis of TTP is critical for optimal management.