Is SARS-CoV-2 infection an emerging risk factor for splanchnic venous thrombosis?

Clin Hemorheol Microcirc. 2021;79(2):347-355. doi: 10.3233/CH-211256.

Abstract

Objective: Thrombosis represents one of the most feared complications of the COronaVIrus Disease-2019 (COVID-19). Although pulmonary embolism and deep venous thrombosis are the most described complications, some investigations reported thrombotic localization also in the splanchnic venous district.

Methods: We describe the case of a patient with SARS-CoV-2 infection presenting with abdominal pain and diagnosed with portal vein thrombosis. In addition, we shortly review available literature supporting the possible role of COVID-19 as leading cause of splanchnic venous thrombosis.

Results: After in-depth diagnostic workup, we excluded the commonest causes of portal thrombosis and concluded that SARS-CoV-2 infection represented the main explanation of this finding.

Conclusions: Our study warns the clinicians to maintain a high index of suspicion for thrombosis in patients diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 infection manifesting gastrointestinal symptoms. An appropriate diagnostic work-up could allow to obtain an early diagnosis and consequently improve the clinical outcome of patients.

Keywords: COVID-19; SARS-CoV-2; mesenteric vein thrombosis; portal vein thrombosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19*
  • Humans
  • Risk Factors
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Thrombosis*
  • Venous Thrombosis*