Episode 123

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP): Is plasmapheresis history?

Join us for this engaging debate on the future of acquired TTP (aTTP) treatment chaired by Dr. Eleni Gavriilaki from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in Greece. This discussion features Prof. Marie Scully from University College London Hospital in UK and Prof. Paul Coppo from Saint-Antoine Hospital in Paris, France. The debate centers on whether therapeutic plasma exchange (PEX) combined with immunosuppression, long considered the standard treatment for acute aTTP episodes, has become obsolete with the advent of new therapies.

First Prof. Scully argues that plasmapheresis is indeed a thing of the past, citing its complexity and inherent safety concerns. Prof Scully predicts that the best alternative option will incorporate the use of recombinant ADAMTS13, caplacizumab and immunosuppression primarily with steroids and anti-CD-20 therapy.

In contrast, Prof Coppo argues that a PEX-free strategy cannot be universally applied to all aTTP patients, regardless of clinical presentation and severity because there is insufficient data yet to support this approach, the availability of caplacizumab is not guaranteed.

Tune in for this debate to hear further our experts’ views on the impact of treatment costs on availability and clinical decision making.

Guests:

Dr Eleni Gavriilaki

Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece

Prof Marie Scully

University College London, UCLH, London, UK

Prof Paul Coppo

Sorbonne University and Saint-Antoine Hospital, Paris, France