Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) associated with interferon therapy of hepatitis C
by Iryna S. Hepburn and Robert Schade
Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura/hemolytic uremic syndrome (TTP/HUS) is a rare but known complication of chronic viral hepatitis C (HCV). Even less frequently treatment of HCV with interferon-alpha (INFα) may become complicated with TTP/HUS, although only a few such reports have been published. We report a 43-year-old woman who developed TTP on two separate occasions soon after beginning treatment with IFN-alpha and ribavarin for HCV. (Specialties Gastroenterology; Hepatology: 16 Feb 2010) More...

Spontaneous biliary peritonitis: two unusual cases
Two patients with biliary peritonitis without demonstrable perforation are described. Despite
biliary peritonitis almost invariably following biliary tract perforation, none could be identified
with contemporary imaging. This condition is extremely rare, difficult to diagnose pre-operatively and has high mortality. ( August 2004) More...