COVID-19 and Vasa vasorum: New Atherogenic Factor? A Case Report and Autopsy Findings

Abstract

Patients with COVID-19 demonstrate higher rates of cardiovascular complications, including thromboses and thromboembolism. One may suppose that the action of SARS-CoV-2 transforms stable atherosclerotic plaques into unstable status. Cardiovascular complications in COVID-19 may be caused by progressive viral alteration of the blood vessels, including Vasa vasorum. A lethal case of ischemic brain disease caused by cerebral atherosclerosis and exacerbated by a stroke during COVID-19 infection is briefly described. The results of the autopsy showed perivascular lymphocytic infiltration and signs of Vasa vasorum vasculitis with thrombi of adventitial microvasculature. The data discussed in the article are interpreted in the context of the concept giving the important role in atherogenesis to Vasa vasorum.