The Development of Neurological Damage in a Patient With Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura and Legionnaires’ Disease: A Case Report

This case report aims to highlight a rare and severe presentation of Legionnaires’ disease complicated by thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TPP). The patient, a 75-year-old male with a history of COVID-19 infection, presented with bilateral pneumonia positive for Legionella pneumophila. He developed signs of TTP, cerebral hemorrhage, and renal failure. Despite treatment, the patient’s condition deteriorated, leading to flaccid paralysis, absent reflexes, and multiple brain hemorrhages. This case suggests a potential autoimmune mechanism for the neurological symptoms seen in this combination of Legionnaires’ disease and TTP. Thus, it would be worthwhile to further investigate and understand the relationship between these two conditions. Further research into underlying mechanisms will contribute to improving therapeutic approaches for this rare presentation. Additionally, the patient’s previous COVID-19 infection could have contributed to thrombotic complications due to its association with respiratory infections, warranting further investigation.