Concomitant acute limb ischemia and myocardial infarction: another challenge of COVID-19's hypercoagulability

Ouissal Aissaoui1, Salem Husam1, Anass Mounir1

  • 1Department of Intensive Care and Anesthesiology, Ibn Rochd University Hospital, Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, Inflammation and Allergy (LICIA), Hassan II University of Casablanca Morocco.

Insights

COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) can cause arterial thrombosis, leading to rare, simultaneous acute limb ischemia and myocardial infarction. This case highlights hypercoagulability challenges in managing severe COVID-19 complications.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Vascular Surgery

Background:

  • COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) is linked to thromboembolic events, with venous thrombosis being more documented.
  • Arterial thrombosis is a less common but severe complication of COVID-19.

Observation:

  • A 77-year-old COVID-19 patient presented with acute lower limb ischemia and myocardial infarction.
  • This dual arterial event in a COVID-19 patient is extremely rare and indicative of hypercoagulability.

Findings:

  • The patient underwent coronary angiography with stent placement, followed by thrombectomy for limb ischemia.
  • Despite interventions, the patient experienced persistent cardiogenic shock, reperfusion syndrome, and multiorgan failure.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the significant vascular risks associated with COVID-19, presenting a challenge for clinicians.
  • Effective management strategies for concomitant arterial thrombosis and cardiac events in COVID-19 patients require further investigation.

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