A Splenic Infarction Related to Parainfluenza Infection in a Patient with AML: Lessons for COVID-19

Abstract

Infection related thrombosis is a well-known entity. Antigen burden, immune response, complement activation, pro-coagulant condition, and smoking are only a few amongst the multiple risk factors which interplay in the development of thrombosis in any given case. Viral infections are amongst the many inciting factors known to predispose a prothrombotic state. We hereby report a known case of acute myelogenous leukemia, status post allogeneic stem cell trans-plantation who presented with two discrete episodes of sore throat and left upper quadrant pain. Infectious workup confirmed parainfluenza virus 3 on the first occasion, and rhinovirus infection on the second occasion. Computed tomography of the abdomen during both times suggested a splenic infarction. A comprehensive thrombotic workup was negative which suggested the diagnosis of viral infection-related splenic infarction. This case highlights the importance of caring for the potential eventualities of coagulopathy in cancer and other immunocompromised patients infected during the COVID-19 pandemic.