First description of atrial fibrillation and congenital thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura treated by left atrial appendage occlusion

EJHaem. 2023 Mar 3;4(2):428-431. doi: 10.1002/jha2.659. eCollection 2023 May.

Abstract

Given an increased risk of both thrombosis and bleeding, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) presents a unique challenge when anticoagulation is required for comorbid disease, particularly in the setting of major bleeding events. We present for the first time a patient with TTP and atrial fibrillation, presenting with recurrent stroke, but unable to tolerate anticoagulation due to prior intra-cerebral hemorrhage. To address both issues concomitantly, we describe the successful application of a novel management approach to facilitate left atrial appendage occlusion, there by offering a non-pharmacologic means of stroke prevention without added bleeding risk.

Keywords: Anticoagulation; LAAO; TTP; Watchman; atrial fibrillation; left atrial appendage; occlusion; purpura; stroke; thrombocytopenia; thrombocytopenic; thromboembolic; thrombosis; thrombotic.