ABSTRACT
A variable clinical presentation is emerging as a hallmark of the novel SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2). In addition to hypoxic respiratory failure, multiorgan dysfunction, and septic shock, significant thromboembolic complications posited to result from diffuse coagulopathy have been associated with this viral infection. We report on a unique primary manifestation of SARS-CoV-2 infection presenting as acute limb ischemia and aortic mural thrombosis without clinical evidence of pulmonary disease. Despite our best attempts at limb salvage with therapeutic anticoagulation, emergent aortoiliac and distal embolectomy, the patient developed bilateral dry gangrene and ultimately required lower extremity amputations.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Thrombotic disease complicates severe SARS-CoV-2 infection and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Various anticoagulation strategies have been evaluated in hospitalized patients to prevent complications. The impact of chronic anticoagulation before SARS-CoV-2 infection on the risk for subsequent thrombosis has not been systematically studied. METHODS: This was a retrospective single-center study. All patients with positive SARS-CoV-2 PCR testing from March 13, 2020, through May 6, 2020, at the University of Rochester Medical Center were identified. We included all patients receiving therapeutic anticoagulation for at least 1 month before COVID diagnosis. We documented the rate of thrombotic complications, type of anticoagulation, bleeding complications, and mortality. RESULTS: A total of 107 SARS-CoV2-infected patients were chronically anticoagulated before SARS-CoV-2 testing with a median age of 78. Of those, 42 required hospital admission, with 17 requiring intensive care. No patients, inpatient or outpatient, were diagnosed with a new symptomatic thrombotic complication. Three patients had minor bleeding in the hospital. Thirteen (12%) patients died (69% male). CONCLUSION: Our uncontrolled findings suggest that chronic anticoagulation at the time of infection may protect against thrombotic complications and decrease disease severity.