WHAT CAUSES TTP-HUS?
In most patients there is no explanation for the occurrence of TTP-HUS. However we do know many things about this illness: 1) TTP-HUS is not contagious. 2) TTP-HUS is not inherited (except for very rare families). 3) TTP-HUS can occur at all ages. 4) TTP-HUS occurs more often in women. 5) Many patients with TTP-HUS are overweight. 6) TTP-HUS can occur during or immediately following pregnancy. In pregnant women the diagnosis of TTP-HUS is difficult because all of its features can also be present in preeclampsia (sometimes also called “toxemia of pregnancy”). Preeclampsia is typically only a problem of high blood pressure that resolves after delivery. 7) TTP-HUS can be caused by an allergic reaction to a medicine. The most common drug that can cause TTP-HUS is quinine, the remedy many people use for leg cramps. 8) TTP-HUS can be caused by infection with the bacteria, E. coli 0157:H7, which can be in undercooked beef or hamburger. In this form of TTP-HUS, patients initially have bloody d
