What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura?

Blood clots, a low platelet count, and damaged red blood cells cause the signs and symptoms of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP).

The signs and symptoms include:

• Purplish bruises on the skin or mucous membranes (such as on the mouth) due to bleeding under the skin. These bruises are called purpura.
• Pinpoint-sized red or purple dots on the skin that often are found in groups and may look like a rash. The spots, called petechiae, are due to bleeding under the skin.
• Paleness or jaundice (a yellowish color of the skin or whites of the eyes).
• Fatigue (feeling very tired and weak).
• Fever.
• A fast heart rate or shortness of breath.
• Headache, speech changes, confusion, coma, stroke, or seizure.
• A low amount of urine, or protein or blood in the urine.

If you've had TTP and have any of these signs and symptoms, you may be having a relapse (flareup). Talk with your doctor about when to call him or her or seek emergency care.