Clinical-radiological correlations in COVID-19-related venous
thromboembolism: preliminary results from a multidisciplinary study
Abstract
Introduction: Among the multiple complex pathophysiological mechanisms
underlying COVID-19 pneumonia, immunothrombosis has been shown to play a
key role. One of the most dangerous consequences of the prothrombotic
imbalance is the increased incidence of micro- and macro-thrombotic
phenomena, especially deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism
(PE). Methods: We investigated the correlation between radiological and
clinical-biochemical characteristics of a cohort of hospitalized
COVID-19 patients. Results: PE was confirmed in 14/61 (23%) patients,
five (35.7%) had DVT. The radiographic findings, quantified by Qanadli
score, correlated with the clinical score and biochemical markers. The
ratio between the right and left ventricle diameter measured at CT scan
correlated with the length of hospital stay. Conclusion: In our cohort
radiological parameters showed a significant correlation with clinical
prognostic indices and scores, thus suggesting that a multidisciplinary
approach is advisable in the evaluation of PE in COVID-19 patients.