A Devastating Floating Aortic Thrombus and Ketosis-Prone Diabetes

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Endocrinology
• Vascular Medicine

Background:

• Ketosis-prone diabetes (KPD) is a distinct subtype of diabetes mellitus.
• KPD presents with severe hyperglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis.
• Inflammation from uncontrolled hyperglycemia is a key feature of KPD.

Observation:

• A middle-aged patient with KPD and diabetic ketoacidosis developed a mobile thrombus in the distal aortic arch.
• The patient exhibited limited atherosclerosis and no signs of thrombophilia.
• Catastrophic embolic complications arose from the aortic thrombus.

Findings:

• KPD and associated inflammation likely contributed to the aortic thrombus formation.
• Endothelial dysfunction and prothrombotic pathway activation are potential mechanisms.
• The exact pathogenesis of mobile aortic thrombus in KPD requires further investigation.

Implications:

• This case underscores the potential cardiovascular risks associated with KPD.
• Optimal management strategies for mobile aortic thrombus in KPD remain debated.
• Further research is needed to clarify the link between KPD, inflammation, and aortic thrombosis.