Acute aortic thrombosis in COVID-19

Ciro Baeza1, Alejandro González1, Patricia Torres1

  • 1Department of Vascular Surgery, University Hospital Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Madrid, Spain.

Insights

This study reports three cases of acute aortic thrombosis in patients with COVID-19. The findings suggest a potential link between SARS-CoV-2 infection and aortic vascular events.

Area of Science:

  • Vascular Surgery
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Cardiology

Background:

  • Acute aortic occlusion is a rare condition with high mortality.
  • The SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic poses significant global health challenges.
  • COVID-19 is associated with a pro-inflammatory state and coagulopathy, potentially involving macrophage activation.

Observation:

  • Three cases of acute infrarenal abdominal aortic thrombosis were observed in COVID-19 patients within a two-week period.
  • These patients were treated at our hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • The presentation of aortic thrombosis in these patients was acute.

Findings:

  • The study presents a series of three cases linking COVID-19 infection to acute aortic thrombosis.
  • The findings suggest a potential association between SARS-CoV-2 infection and the development of aortic thrombosis.
  • Inflammatory processes and coagulopathy in COVID-19 may contribute to aortic thrombosis.

Implications:

  • This case series highlights a potential, previously underreported complication of COVID-19.
  • Awareness of aortic thrombosis as a possible manifestation of COVID-19 is crucial for clinicians.
  • Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms linking COVID-19 to aortic thrombosis and to inform clinical management.

Related Concept Videos

Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies01:21

Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies

Thoracic, aortic arch and abdominal aneurysms are significant vascular conditions that can present with various clinical manifestations and lead to serious complications. Understanding these manifestations and the appropriate diagnostic studies is essential for effective management and treatment.Thoracic Aortic AneurysmsThoracic aortic aneurysms often remain asymptomatic until they reach a size that impinges on adjacent structures. They typically cause deep, diffuse chest pain that radiates to...
114
Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests01:22

Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests

Aortic valve regurgitation (AR) occurs when the aortic valve fails to close properly, allowing blood to flow backward from the aorta into the left ventricle. This backflow can result in two distinct clinical presentations: acute and chronic AR, each characterized by its own set of symptoms and physical findings.Acute Aortic RegurgitationAcute AR presents with a sudden onset of severe symptoms. Patients typically experience profound dyspnea (shortness of breath), chest pain, and signs of left...
251
Aortic Regurgitation I: Introduction01:15

Aortic Regurgitation I: Introduction

IntroductionAortic regurgitation is characterized by the backward flow of blood from the aorta into the left ventricle during diastole and arises from the improper closure of the aortic valve. This condition results in left ventricular volume overload and can stem from both acute and chronic etiologies, each contributing uniquely to the disease's progression and symptomatology.Acute and Chronic CausesAcute aortic regurgitation often results from events that suddenly impair the integrity of the...
285
Aortic Regurgitation III: Medical Management01:25

Aortic Regurgitation III: Medical Management

Aortic regurgitation (AR) is when the aortic valve does not close or seal properly, leading to backward blood circulation from the aorta into the left ventricle during diastole. Common causes of AR include rheumatic heart disease, congenital valve defects, and aortic root dilation. Managing AR requires a multifaceted approach to alleviate symptoms, preserve left ventricular function, and address the underlying cause of the regurgitation. Patients with symptomatic AR or significant left...
222
Aneurysm I: Introduction01:30

Aneurysm I: Introduction

An aortic aneurysm is a localized outpouching or dilation at a weak point in the artery wall. It may involve different parts of the aorta, such as the abdominal aorta, aortic arch, or thoracic aorta.Etiological factorsSeveral disorders are associated with aortic aneurysms.Congenital causes, such as primary connective tissue disorders like Marfan syndrome, impact the integrity and strength of connective tissues, notably affecting the aorta. Marfan syndrome is a genetic disorder that specifically...
177
Acute Coronary Syndrome II: Pathophysiology and Clinical Manifestations01:19

Acute Coronary Syndrome II: Pathophysiology and Clinical Manifestations

The pathophysiology of Acute Coronary Syndrome [ACD] involves several key processes:The main underlying cause of ACD is atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the buildup of lipid-laden plaques within the coronary arteries.As the atherosclerotic plaque grows in the coronary artery, it may become unstable due to the formation of a lipid-rich core and a thin fibrous cap. Inflammatory cells within the plaque, such as macrophages, secrete enzymes that degrade the...
249