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Published on: September 25, 2016
COVID-19 associated thrombotic microangiopathy.
Esra Karabag Yilmaz1, Memnune Nur Cebi2, Iremnaz Karahan2
1Department of Paediatric Nephrology, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey.
COVID-19 infection can lead to thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA), a rare condition affecting blood vessels. Eculizumab treatment showed promise in a pediatric case, suggesting potential benefits for complement system activation in selected patients.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Hematology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) is infrequently reported with COVID-19.
- Understanding COVID-19's impact on TMA is crucial for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report two pediatric cases of TMA associated with COVID-19.
- To evaluate the efficacy of eculizumab in treating COVID-19-associated TMA.
Main Methods:
- Case report of two pediatric patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection and TMA.
- Laboratory investigations including PCR, hematology, coagulation, and complement assays.
- Treatment with eculizumab in one patient.
Main Results:
- Both patients presented with microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and acute kidney injury.
- No alternative causes for TMA were identified.
- Eculizumab treatment led to positive outcomes in one patient with persistent hemolysis and anuria.
Conclusions:
- COVID-19 infection is a potential cause of TMA.
- Eculizumab may be a beneficial treatment option for selected COVID-19-associated TMA cases, particularly those with complement system activation.
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