4 replies to this topic

[osris]

"Possible green tea-induced thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura" 

 

Abstract:

 

Purpose: A case of a patient who developed thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) after consuming a weight-loss product containing green tea is reported.

 

Summary: A 38-year-old, 68-kg Caucasian woman arrived at the emergency department with a one-week history of malaise, fatigue, and petechiae of the skin. She had no symptoms of infection and denied illegal drug use. Her medical history included hypothyroidism, for which she was treated with levothyroxine 150 microg daily for the past four years. She reported that she had been using a green tea preparation for the two months before admission to lose body weight. The daily preparation contained 200 mg of green tea extract 5:1, equivalent to 1 g of natural green tea. On clinical examination, the patient appeared acutely ill and was afebrile, with pallor, petechiae, and purpura of the extremities. Laboratory test results at the time of admission revealed that the patient had anemia and marked thrombocytopenia. A peripheral blood smear demonstrated a feature of microangiopathic hemolytic anemia. Immunoglobulin G autoantibodies against ADAM metallopeptidase with thrombospondin type 1 motif, 13 were detected. On hospital day 3, the patient appeared confused and exhibited aphasia that was initially transient but then recurrent. Brain computerized tomography did not exhibit focal pathology. Over the next few days, her neurologic symptoms subsided and her platelet count and hematocrit value gradually increased. Plasmapheresis was performed (12 procedures). Corticosteroid treatment was also initiated. After 20 days of hospitalization, the patient was discharged.

 

https://pubmed.ncbi....h.gov/20237380/

Edited by osris, 30 June 2023 - 11:56 AM.

[ironfistx]

People love to take green tea extract at large doses.  I think it's dangerous at any dose.  What is "1g of green tea?"  Does that mean 1g of prepared?  1g of leaves?

[gamesguru]

Any differential diagnosis? Was the patient cleared of other possible conditions, e.g. CMV infection, endocarditis, leukemia, dietary restrictions, other supplements, diabetic or autoimmune pathology?

 

I find it unlikely such a low dose of green tea would cause such extreme adverse effects. Many people consume 5+ grams of matcha or gyokuro daily without issue, it's probably >400 mg EGCG

[osris]

I was taking that 350 mg for two months and small 3 red blood-colored spots appeared on my tongue, which is a sign of low platelet count.

[gamesguru]

I guess some people are more sensitive. I was able to find an investigative review, in addition to the case report you supplied.

 

Are you taking aspirin, or any other medications or supplements? Any history of blood disorders, liver conditions, other illness or sensitivity to medicines / supplements?

 

What else do you want us to say? Have you tried a lower dose, like 25-50% as much? Have you tried other products? Or brewing your own tea? Has a friend or family member had a similar reaction from the same product?