Acute submassive pulmonary embolism after SARS-CoV-2 infection: a case report of reinfection or prolonged hypercoagulable state. Journal Article

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Authors: Pow, T; Allen, S; Brailovsky, Y; Darki, A
Article Title: Acute submassive pulmonary embolism after SARS-CoV-2 infection: a case report of reinfection or prolonged hypercoagulable state.
Abstract: Background: Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) reinfection has been a topic of discussion with data still emerging. Viral antibodies are known to develop upon initial infection; however, it is unclear the amount of protection this confers against reinfection. Additionally, COVID-19-associated coagulopathy (CAC) is a well-documented phenomenon; however, there are no high-quality studies to support the treatment of outpatients beyond standard indications of venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis. This case describes a patient with either COVID-19 reinfection or prolonged course of CAC resulting in pulmonary embolism (PE). Case summary: A 40-year-old healthy man presented with fever and cough. He tested positive for COVID-19 and was sent home to self-quarantine. His symptoms resolved and repeat COVID-19 testing returned negative. Two months later, he developed dyspnoea on exertion and syncope. Computed tomography with PE protocol demonstrated acute bilateral PE, and repeat COVID-19 testing returned positive. He was escalated to catheter-directed thrombolysis, but prior to the procedure went into cardiopulmonary arrest. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation was initiated and full-dose systemic alteplase was administered. Cardiothoracic surgery was consulted for consideration of veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation; however, return of spontaneous circulation was unable to be achieved. Discussion: This case raises the question of COVID-19 reinfection and prolonged risk of VTE due to CAC. We believe the patient was reinfected with COVID-19 provoking his PE; however, a single COVID-19 infection causing a prolonged course of CAC is possible. Until better data exists, decisions regarding outpatient prophylaxis must be individualized to weigh the risks of bleeding against the risk of thrombosis.
Journal Title: European heart journal. Case reports
Publisher: Unknown  
Date Published: 2021