title: Ocular manifestations of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura.
abstract: Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura is a serious and uncommon disease of hemostasis. Severe disturbances in both blood components and chemistry may cause marked changes both systemically and in ocular tissues. Ocular manifestations include retinal and vitreal hemorrhage, retinal detachment, papilledema, and disc neovascularization. Management of mild cases is limited to supportive therapy and monitoring changes in the fundus. In advanced cases, photocoagulation, vitrectomy, and retinal reattachment surgery may be necessary. This article reviews the effects of this relatively rare blood disorder on the visual system.
authors.affiliation: Department of Veteran Affairs, Medical Center, Huntington, WV 25704.
authors.forename: R L
authors.initials: RL
authors.lastname: Black
authors.forename: J E
authors.initials: JE
authors.lastname: Terry
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D002908:Chronic Disease; D005451:Fluorescein Angiography; D005654:Fundus Oculi; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011697:Purpura, Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic / Q000150:complications* / Q000175:diagnosis; D012166:Retinal Hemorrhage / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology*; D014792:Visual Acuity