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Published on: July 19, 2018
Calcified Catheter-Related Fibrin Sheath Forms Large Intravenous Cast in Hemodialysis Patient Causing Embolic
Justin Newman1, Ali Syed2, Chava Blivaiss3
1Medical Student, New York Institute of Technology (NYIT) College of Osteopathic Medicine, Glen Head, USA.
Insights
A rare complication of central venous catheters (CVC) involves calcified fibrin sheaths forming a cast within the vein after catheter removal. This case highlights embolic risks associated with these retained venous casts.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Surgery
- Nephrology
- Radiology
Background:
- Chronic indwelling central venous catheters (CVCs) are essential for dialysis but can lead to complications.
- Catheter-related sheath (CRS) formation is a known complication, which can calcify over time.
- Calcified CRS can rarely persist as an intraluminal cast after CVC removal.
Observation:
- A 57-year-old dialysis-dependent woman presented with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) bacteremia.
- During evaluation, a calcified catheter-shaped cast was identified in her right internal jugular vein.
- This venous cast was discovered after the removal of her CVC.
Findings:
- The case details the clinical course, diagnostic imaging, and identification of a retained intraluminal venous cast.
- Embolic complications were suspected as a sequela of this rare venous cast.
- The report emphasizes the unique pathology and its potential sequelae.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of recognizing retained venous casts after CVC removal.
- Understanding the diagnostic and imaging features is crucial for appropriate patient management.
- Awareness of potential embolic complications associated with these casts is vital for clinicians.
Abstract:
Catheter-related sheath (CRS) formation secondary to chronic indwelling central venous catheters (CVC) is a well-documented complication. When these fibrin sheaths calcify, they can form a "cast" surrounding the catheter. Upon removal of the CVC, a rare complication can occur where the calcified sheath remains in situ leaving behind an intraluminal catheter-shaped cast. This report describes a case of a 57-year-old dialysis-dependent woman who was found to have a right internal jugular vein cast during the evaluation and treatment of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) bacteremia. This case reviews and discusses the embolic complications suspected to be a result of this cast. Our case provides insight into the clinical course, diagnostic methods, and imaging identification of a rare pathology and its unique complications.
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