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Breast Cancer–Associated Thrombotic Microangiopathy: The Paradox of Stable Scans and Unstable Blood

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Cancer-associated thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) is a rare and often fatal consequence of solid and hematologic malignancies. We report a 69-year-old woman with metastatic hormone receptor–positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2–negative breast cancer who developed severe anemia without bleeding. Laboratory tests revealed erythrocyte destruction, low platelet counts, and the presence of schistocytes. Imaging suggested a stable tumor burden. A bone marrow biopsy confirmed cancer-associated TMA. This case shows that stable imaging does not rule out cancer progression or TMA. Early diagnosis of cancer-associated TMA is essential for timely therapy, improving survival rates, and quality of life.

Source: Annals of Internal Medicine Clinical Cases

DOI: 10.7326/aimcc.2025.0421

Authors: Calla M. Sullivan, Srikanth Reddy Kothapalli, Safina Hafeez, Meghana Kesireddy

Institutions: University of Nebraska Medical Center, CHI Health St. Francis

Language: English

Topic: Complement system in diseases

Subfield: Immunology

Field: Immunology and Microbiology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4413921764

FWCI:

Cites: 7

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Related to: 10