Prolonged refractory status epilepticus related to thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura.

BACKGROUND: Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is an extremely rare cause of status epilepticus. Review of literature demonstrated only four cases of brief status epilepticus (SE) associated with TTP.

CASE: We describe a young woman with yet incomplete neurological recovery after prolonged refractory status epilepticus. Management required pentobarbital-induced coma for 60 days. Five months after onset, she was conversant and oriented with continued neuromuscular deficits.

CONCLUSIONS: This is an unusual presentation of severe refractory SE associated with TTP. With aggressive life support and prolonged pentobarbital infusion, however, survival and the chance of meaningful recovery appear to be possible.