Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 10, 2026

Catheter Ablation in Combination With Left Atrial Appendage Closure for Atrial Fibrillation
Published on: February 26, 2013
COVID-19-Induced Left Atrial Appendage Thrombus
Steven Douedi1, Mihir Odak1, Ashraf Sliem2
1Cardiology, Deborah Heart and Lung Center, Browns Mills, USA.
Insights
This case study discusses a patient with atrial fibrillation and bleeding who developed a left atrial appendage thrombus after contracting COVID-19. It highlights the complex risks of infection, arrhythmia, and bleeding in managing thromboembolic events.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Hematology
Background:
- Left atrial appendage (LAA) thrombus formation is a serious complication in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients.
- Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is linked to a hypercoagulable state, increasing thrombosis risk.
- Patients with AF and bleeding history face complex management challenges.
Abstract:
Left atrial appendage (LAA) thrombus formation is a clinically significant complication that can occur in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), particularly in the setting of coexisting conditions that affect coagulation. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been associated with a hypercoagulable state, which may contribute to thrombus formation even in patients on anticoagulation. We describe a patient with persistent AF and recent gastrointestinal and intracranial bleeding who was incidentally found to have COVID-19 infection and was diagnosed with a large LAA thrombus. This case highlights the complex interplay between infection, underlying cardiac arrhythmia, and bleeding risk, emphasizing the importance of early recognition and careful management of thromboembolic risk in high-risk patients.
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