Rapid Deterioration of Hospital-Acquired COVID-19 in a Patient on Extracorporeal Left Ventricular Assist Support

Heart Lung. 2020 Nov-Dec;49(6):808-811. doi: 10.1016/j.hrtlng.2020.08.021. Epub 2020 Sep 21.

Abstract

Importance: As the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic accelerates, our hospitals have become overwhelmed.

Objective: To describe detection of COVID-19 in asymptomatic hospitalized individuals awaiting advanced therapies for HF and the management of complications of COVID-19.

Design: We present a unique case report of hospital-acquired COVID-19 in a patient on temporary mechanical circulatory support.

Main outcome: Despite intensive care and monitoring, he developed rapid progression of hypoxic respiratory failure which led to his death.

Conclusion: This case highlights various considerations for a patient with temporary MCS. It illustrates the high risk for development of COVID-19 for vulnerable hospitalized patients.

Keywords: COVID-19; Mechanical circulatory support device; SARS -CoV -2.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Asymptomatic Infections
  • Betacoronavirus
  • COVID-19
  • Clinical Deterioration
  • Coronavirus Infections* / complications
  • Coronavirus Infections* / diagnosis
  • Cross Infection* / complications
  • Cross Infection* / diagnosis
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Heart Failure* / complications
  • Heart Failure* / therapy
  • Heart-Assist Devices*
  • Hospitalization
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pandemics*
  • Pneumonia, Viral* / complications
  • Pneumonia, Viral* / diagnosis
  • SARS-CoV-2