Emerging Trends in Left Ventricular Thrombus: A Comprehensive Review of Non-Ischemic and Ischemic Cardiopathies, Including Eosinophilic Myocarditis, Chagas Cardiomyopathy, Amyloidosis, and Innovative Anticoagulant Approaches

This comprehensive review explores the intricate aspects of left ventricular thrombus (LVT), a potential complication in both ischemic and non-ischemic cardiomyopathies. It provides a thorough understanding of left ventricular thrombus, revealing its uncommon incidence in the general population (7 cases per 10,000 patients), predominantly linked to ischemic heart diseases (ICMs) at an 80% prevalence rate. Diagnostic tools, notably transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR), demonstrate varying sensitivity but remain indispensable in specific clinical contexts related to LVT as non-invasive diagnostic modalities. A detailed comparison between ICM patients and those with non-ischemic cardiomyopathy (NICM) who have left ventricular thrombus reveals subtle distinctions with significant clinical implications. This analysis underscores the importance of these imaging techniques in distinguishing between the two conditions. Additionally, we explored the occurrence of LVT in specific non-ischemic cardiomyopathies, including Takotsubo syndrome, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, eosinophilic myocarditis, Chagas disease, cardiac amyloidosis, and several other conditions. The article further delves into anticoagulation strategies, thoroughly examining their impact on LVT regression and patient outcomes. Pharmacological interventions, with a focus on direct oral anticoagulants, emerge as promising alternatives; however, there is insufficient information on their efficiency and safety, especially in NICM population. In conclusion, this review highlights the complex nature of LVT, incorporating a range of etiopathogenic factors, diagnostic complexities, and evolving therapeutic approaches. It emphasizes the pressing need for ongoing research in this field.

Direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) versus vitamin K antagonist in left ventricular thrombus: An updated meta-analysis

Background and Aims

Current clinical guidelines for treating left ventricular thrombus (LVT) are limited by inadequate evidence to inform the comparative efficacy of oral anticoagulants. In this meta-analysis, we aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) to vitamin K antagonists (VKA) in patients with LVT.

Methods

Four standard databases were searched for relevant literature comparing the efficacy and safety between DOAC and VKA for LVT treatment, published before August 19, 2023. Both the randomized controlled trials and observational studies were included in the analysis. The outcomes of interest were the resolution of LVT, all-cause mortality, stroke, systemic embolism, and bleeding. Data from the selected studies were extracted and analyzed using RevMan 5.4 using odds ratio.

Results

Among 3959 studies from the database search and bibliography review, 33 were included in the analysis. LVT resolution was observed in 72.59% in the DOAC group versus 67.49% in the VKA group (odds ratio [OR]: 1.28, confidence interval [CI]: 1.07-1.53). Mortality was lower in the DOAC group (11.71% vs. 18.56%) (OR: 0.60, CI: 0.36-1.00; borderline statistical significance). Likewise, bleeding events (9.60% vs. 13.19%) (OR: 0.65, CI: 0.52-0.81) and stroke (7.54% vs. 11.04%) (OR: 0.71, CI: 0.53-0.96) were also significantly lower in the DOAC group.

Conclusion

DOAC use for LVT showed better thrombus resolution and reduced risk of bleeding and stroke compared to VKA. Likewise, DOAC use was associated with lower mortality with borderline statistical significance.

A Case Report on Extensive Arterial Thrombosis: A Rare Complication of COVID-19 Infection

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a global health crisis leading to increased morbidity and mortality worldwide. It is associated with increased activation of the clotting system leading to thrombotic complications increasing the risk of life-threatening complications. We report a case of a 70-years-old COVID-19 positive patient who presented with both lower extremities and forearm pain. On workup, she was found to have an extensive arterial clot. In patients with COVID-19, arterial clots may be the initial presenting symptoms to the hospital and can be fatal if not brought to attention on time.

COVID-19 Pneumonia, Takotsubo Syndrome, and Left Ventricle Thrombi

Left ventricle thrombus is considered a rare complication of Takotsubo syndrome. However, both a stress condition predisposing to Takotsubo syndrome and coagulation abnormalities coexist in COVID-19. We describe a case of a patient with COVID-19 with Takotsubo syndrome. (Level of Difficulty: Intermediate.).

Acute Bowel Ischemia Associated with Left Ventricular Thrombus and Arteriovenous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation

Indications for extra corporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) have expanded in recent years, and it has become an invaluable tool in the care of adult patients in severe cardiogenic shock or respiratory failure. Understanding the physiologic effect of ECMO has also further developed, allowing for improvements in the management of the potential morbidities associated with this technology. Here, we present a case of acute bowel ischemia that developed while the patient was on central venoarterial ECMO.

Left ventricular thrombus associated with arteriovenous extra corporeal membrane oxygenation

Extra corporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has remarkably progressed over the recent years. It has become an invaluable tool in the care of adults and pediatric patients with severe cardiogenic shock. At the initiation of ECMO support, the left ventricular contractility is profoundly impaired. Inadequate right ventricular drainage and bronchial circulation can lead to left ventricular distension, with potential deleterious consequences, ranging from inadequate myocardial rest, pulmonary edema, or intracardiac clot formation. Therefore, it is of extreme importance to ensure an adequate left ventricular drainage. Here we present a case of LV thrombus developed while the patient is on central venoarterial (VA) ECMO.