Acquired thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is characterized as what type of disease?

Acquired thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is characterized as an autoimmune disease because it involves the immune system erroneously attacking the body's own cells. In TTP, the body produces inhibitory antibodies against the von Willebrand factor-cleaving protease, leading to the accumulation of large von Willebrand factor multimers. This results in the excessive activation of platelets and the formation of small blood clots throughout the microvasculature, causing a reduction in platelet count and leading to the characteristic symptoms of TTP.

Unlike genetic disorders that arise from inherited mutations, TTP typically develops in adulthood and is often triggered by other factors, such as certain medications or underlying health conditions. Clotting factor deficiencies primarily involve a lack of specific proteins necessary for blood coagulation, but TTP is more about dysregulation and autoimmunity rather than an inherent deficiency. Infection-related anemia, on the other hand, refers to a decrease in red blood cells due to infections, which is not directly linked to the pathophysiology of TTP.