Masuda E, Fukushima K, Hebisawa Y, Tanaka M, Ohta A, Imamura A. Coronavirus disease 2019-associated thrombotic microangiopathy treated with plasma exchange and antihypertensive therapy in a patient with HIV: A case report with literature review.
Medicine (Baltimore) 2023;
102:e35469. [PMID:
37832064 PMCID:
PMC10578717 DOI:
10.1097/md.0000000000035469]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease that often causes complications in multiple organs and thrombosis due to abnormal blood coagulation. This case report aimed to describe the clinical course of COVID-19-associated thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) and reviewed the comprehensive information on TMA, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), and atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome associated with COVID-19 in the past literature.
PATIENT CONCERNS
A 46-year-old Japanese man was diagnosed with human immunodeficiency virus infection 10 years ago and treated with antiretroviral therapy. The patient presented with fever, malaise, hematuria, and bilateral upper abdominal discomfort for the past 4 days.
DIAGNOSES
COVID-19-associated TMA was diagnosed based on a positive polymerase chain reaction for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 and laboratory findings such as thrombocytopenia, acute kidney injury, and hemolytic anemia. Malignant hypertension and human immunodeficiency virus infection were also considered as differential diagnoses of TMA.
INTERVENTIONS
Considering the possibility of TTP, plasma exchange was performed, and glucocorticoids were administered. Hemodialysis was performed for acute kidney injury. Antihypertensive drugs were administered to control the high blood pressure.
OUTCOMES
Platelet count and renal function improved, and hemodialysis was no longer required. The patient was in good general condition and was discharged from the hospital.
LESSONS
COVID-19-associated TMA should be considered as a differential diagnosis during the COVID-19 epidemic. Excessive inflammation and severe COVID-19 are not essential for TMA development. Early intervention using conventional TMA treatments, such as plasma exchange and corticosteroids, might be important in improving prognosis while differentiating between TTP and atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome. Antihypertensive therapy may be helpful in the treatment of COVID-19-associated TMA.
Collapse