Airway obstruction: a rare complication of thrombolytic therapy

Abstract

Bleeding into head and neck structures as a complication of thrombolysis is extremely rare but potentially lethal. It is usually associated with local trauma. We describe a case of a 67-year-old woman who developed spontaneous, massive pan aerodigestive tract haemorrhage precipitating airway obstruction following administration of streptokinase for myocardial infarction; a previously unreported complication. This case highlights the importance of being vigilant of airway symptoms following such treatment, prompting early involvement of anaesthetic and otolaryngology personnel.