Is SARS-CoV-2 infection an emerging risk factor for splanchnic venous thrombosis?

Cesare Tripolino1, Attilia Maria Pizzini1, Stefania Zaccaroni1

  • 1Department of Internal Medicine, Ospedale Maggiore "Carlo Alberto Pizzardi", Bologna, Italy.

Insights

Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) can cause splanchnic venous thrombosis, including portal vein thrombosis. Early diagnosis in patients with gastrointestinal symptoms is crucial for better outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Vascular Medicine
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Gastroenterology

Background:

  • Thrombosis is a significant complication of COVID-19.
  • While pulmonary and deep vein thromboses are common, splanchnic venous thrombosis is increasingly recognized.
  • SARS-CoV-2 infection may contribute to splanchnic venous thrombosis.

Observation:

  • A case of a patient with SARS-CoV-2 infection presenting with abdominal pain and portal vein thrombosis is detailed.
  • The patient's portal vein thrombosis was attributed to SARS-CoV-2 infection after excluding other common causes.

Findings:

  • The study highlights a potential link between SARS-CoV-2 infection and splanchnic venous thrombosis.
  • Exclusion of other etiologies confirmed SARS-CoV-2 as the likely cause in this case.

Implications:

  • Clinicians should suspect thrombosis in COVID-19 patients with gastrointestinal symptoms.
  • Prompt diagnosis and management of splanchnic venous thrombosis in COVID-19 can improve patient prognosis.
Abstract

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