A Prospective Study to Assess the Vascular Burden in TTP Patients
Dr. Shih-Han Susan Huang
Scientist, Lawson Research Institute
London, ON Canada
Research Aims of this Study:
"TTP is associated with significant morbidity and mortality (33% over 8 years), even after plasma exchange treatment. Therefore, we need to re-focus the management goal of these patients and prevent these injuries to the heart and the brain."
How did Dr. Shih-Han Susan Huang become interested in TTP research:
"My research training and interest are in the areas of extracorporeal therapies, including dialysis and plasmapheresis. I use advanced technology and biomarkers to investigate and assess TTP. My current research project pertaining to optimizing long term survivorship from thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura is completely original."
How Dr. Shih-Han Susan Huang believes this research will impact individuals living with or impacted by TTP:
"We will apply advanced imaging tools and evaluate blood markers in 20 TTP patients. Through this study, we will have a better understanding of the disease burden and its structural impact on the heart and the brain."
Comments from Dr. Shih-Han Susan Huang to donors:
"Our research proposal is unique and important. Our 256-slice Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA) studies are sensitive to detect microvascular injuries, which is the main pathogenesis of TTP related organ injuries. With the support of the Answering TTP Grant, we will apply this advance technology to better understand this rare but life-threatening disease."
UPDATES
September 18, 2021
On September 17, 2021 the Answering TTP Foundation received an exciting update from Dr. Huang in regards to the above-mentioned research she is conducting with funding from the Foundation. Below is an excerpt from the letter she sent the Foundation along with a link to the publication. Congratulations to Dr. Huang and her team, this is a very exciting developement for the TTP community!
"Our manuscript on blood brain barrier permeability in survivor of TTP has been published today. You can view it online. I would like to thank Answering TTP for supporting this pilot project. We are hoping to continue on this path of TTP research to improve the quality of life and management of TTP." --- Dr. Susan Huang
CLICK HERE for additional information.
bloodadvances.2021005317.pdf