An unusual coincidence of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura and pernicious anemia

A 52 year old man was admitted for hospitalization due to dizziness and weakness that appeared in the previous 2 weeks. Anemia and thrombocytopenia, as well as elevated levels of lactic dehydrogenase, reticulocytosis and schistocytes on blood smear, all suggested thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura. However, B12 deficiency was also diagnosed. The diagnosis of pernicious anemia was reassured by both fundic biopsy and the existence of antiparietal cells antibodies and anti-intrinsic cells antibodies. A few courses of plasmapheresis along with parenteral B12 stabilized his physical condition and he was released with no need for further treatment, and only required ambulatory follow-up.