Neutrophil extracellular traps and NETosis: a report of two autopsies and review of literature

Blood Coagul Fibrinolysis. 2020 Jan;31(1):92-96. doi: 10.1097/MBC.0000000000000872.

Abstract

: Recent studies reveal that neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) play a significant role in platelet entrapment and consequent activation of the coagulation cascade. Herein we present two autopsy cases of NETosis. The first case is a 76-year-old man, with metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the lung who expired 5 days post admission. Autopsy revealed extensively necrotic poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma of the right lung. A 30-cm cylindrical thrombus was identified, extending from the left ventricle to the thoracic aorta, composed of numerous neutrophils enmeshed in abundant fibrin representing a NET. The second case is a 73-year-old man who suffered a cardiopulmonary arrest of unknown cause and expired 2 days post admission. Autopsy revealed a 5-cm mural thrombus with numerous neutrophils in the descending aorta consistent with NET, bilateral bronchopneumonia and infarcted bowel. These two autopsies highlight the pathogenic role of NET in causing thrombosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Autopsy / methods*
  • Extracellular Traps / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Neutrophils / metabolism*