Post-COVID-19 Thoracic Aortic Rupture with an Unforeseen Spinal Epidural Hematoma

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Neurology
• Vascular Surgery

Background:

• Aortic rupture is a life-threatening condition requiring immediate intervention.
• Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been associated with various vascular complications.
• Spinal epidural hematoma is a rare but serious neurological emergency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a unique case of thoracic aortic rupture in a patient with recent COVID-19.
• To discuss the diagnostic and management challenges of this complex presentation.
• To highlight the potential association between COVID-19 and aortic emergencies.

Main Methods:

• Case report presentation.
• Review of clinical history, imaging, and treatment course.
• Literature review on COVID-19 and aortic pathology.

Main Results:

• A middle-aged male with recent COVID-19 developed a thoracic aortic rupture.
• The aortic rupture was successfully managed with early stenting.
• The patient subsequently developed an unexpected spinal epidural hematoma, requiring further intervention.

Conclusions:

• This case underscores the critical need for timely diagnosis and intervention in aortic rupture.
• COVID-19 may be a contributing factor to vascular events like aortic rupture.
• The occurrence of spinal epidural hematoma warrants careful monitoring in patients with aortic emergencies.