What to do if a patient of refractory TTP is on a mechanical ventilator and not responding to all lines of medications?

Question

Hi doctor,

My friend has refractory TTP. He is aged 44 with no significant history. After remission contracted PCP standard antibiotics were administered. He is very sick with a respiratory infection and will be put on a mechanical ventilator. He is not responding to all lines of medications. LDH is high with chills and fever, but no cough.

What can be done?

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

He has got an infection due to immunosuppressants used for the primary treatment. PCP Usually responds well to antibiotics, especially Cotrimox and it may take a few days to improve till then he will need mechanical ventilation as the lungs are not functioning properly so be hopeful because the illness is temporary and I hope he will be soon out of ICU (intensive care unit).

Thank you.