Airway obstruction: a rare complication of thrombolytic therapy

J Laryngol Otol. 2005 Oct;119(10):819-21. doi: 10.1258/002221505774481264.

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.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Airway Obstruction / chemically induced*
  • Airway Obstruction / diagnostic imaging
  • Female
  • Fibrinolytic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Hematoma / chemically induced*
  • Hematoma / diagnostic imaging
  • Humans
  • Neck / diagnostic imaging
  • Streptokinase / adverse effects*
  • Thrombolytic Therapy / adverse effects*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed

Substances

  • Fibrinolytic Agents
  • Streptokinase