COVID-19-Associated Coagulopathy: Ascending Aortic Thrombus

Cureus. 2023 Mar 23;15(3):e36607. doi: 10.7759/cureus.36607. eCollection 2023 Mar.

Abstract

The mechanism of arterial thrombosis in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is not completely understood and is attributed to the complex interactions of endothelial injury, platelet hyperactivation, and activated pro-inflammatory cytokines. Management strategies may include a combination of surgery and anticoagulation, or anticoagulation alone. A 56-year-old woman with recent COVID-19 infection presented with chest pain and dyspnea. Chest CT angiography (CTA) and aortic magnetic resonance imaging revealed an intraluminal thrombus in the mid ascending aorta. A multidisciplinary team decided on heparin infusion. She was transitioned to apixaban and a three-month interval outpatient CTA revealed complete resolution of the aortic thrombus.

Keywords: aortic thrombus; arterial thrombus; ascending aortic thrombus; coagulopathy; coronavirus disease 2019; covid-19.

Publication types

  • Case Reports