Two is not always better than one: ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction and acute pulmonary embolism in COVID-19

Abstract

Abstract Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has become a significant global health burden with potential consequences on the cardiovascular system. We describe a case of a healthy male with no prior cardiovascular risk factors who developed ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction and pulmonary embolism following a diagnosis of severe COVID-19 pneumonitis. The patient made a significant recovery following coronary thromboaspiration and anticoagulation therapy. Multiple mechanisms including an indirect hyperinflammatory immune response and/or direct endothelial damage may explain the prothrombotic state related to COVID-19. The cytokine storm leads to endothelial dysfunction and subsequent thromboembolism. Awareness of the lethal cardio-pulmonary sequalae of COVID-19 is important as surges continue across the world owing to new variants.