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Aortic root thrombus causing stroke in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus
J A Hanson1, M E Lloyd, G R Hughes
1Lupus Arthritis Research Unit, Rayne Institute, St Thomas' Hospital, London, UK.
Scandinavian Journal of Rheumatology
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can cause rare aortic root thrombi leading to stroke. Prompt treatment involving thrombus removal and anticoagulation improved patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Cardiology
- Neurology
Background:
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease with diverse clinical manifestations.
- Cerebrovascular accidents (CVAs) are a known, albeit uncommon, complication of SLE.
- Thromboembolic events in SLE are often linked to antiphospholipid antibodies or valvular heart disease.
Observation:
- A 24-year-old woman with SLE presented with a right-sided CVA.
- Imaging revealed an unusual aortic root thrombus.
- No common thrombophilic risk factors were identified in this patient.
Findings:
- The patient underwent successful surgical removal of the aortic root thrombus.
- Anticoagulation therapy was initiated post-procedure.
- The patient experienced a significant clinical recovery following intervention.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare presentation of SLE-associated cerebrovascular disease.
- The findings suggest a potential link between aortic root thrombi and neurological events in SLE, independent of typical thrombophilic markers.
- Further investigation into the pathogenesis of such vascular complications in SLE is warranted.