Extensive deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism as a unique clinical manifestation of COVID-19 in a young healthy patient

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE: Deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism have been described as complications in previously diagnosed COVID-19 patients, especially in those admitted in critical ill units, but, to our knowledge, there is no report of venous thromboembolism in an otherwise asymptomatic COVID-19 patient. METHODS: We report the case of a 22-year-old female, healthy patient with pulmonary embolism (Pulmonary Embolism Severity Index Score 22 points, low risk) and extensive proximal deep vein thrombosis as a unique clinical manifestation of the new coronavirus disease. RESULTS: The patient had no risk factors and no familial history of venous thromboembolism. All thrombophilia markers were negative. The patient was treated as first by an independent vascular team, performing vena cava filter placement and open thrombectomy. Her symptoms worsened, and after 3 weeks, she underwent US-enhanced thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy. She was isolated for 10 days and did not develop any other clinical manifestation of COVID-19 disease. During follow-up, she remained asymptomatic and complete patency of the venous system was achieved. Full oral anticoagulation was conducted for 6 months. CONCLUSION: COVID-19 appears to be a multi-symptomatic disease, and venous thromboembolism without any other previous described COVID-19 symptom could be considered one of its diverse clinical presentations and RT-PCR for SARS-CoV-2 tests emerge to be mandatory in patients with otherwise unexpected venous thrombosis