COVID-19 associated respiratory failure complicating a pericardial effusion in a patient with sideroblastic anemia

Abstract

Background: COVID-19 disease has been associated with several cardiovascular complications that rarely occur in the acute phase of the disease. Case report: A 13-year-old pediatric patient with congenital sideroblastic anemia associated with YARS2 mutation presenting with COVID-19 infection and worsening pericardial effusion followed by a respiratory failure refractory to supplemental oxygen therapy leading to cardiac arrest. Discussion: This case highlights the rapid deterioration that can occur in children with serious hematologic disorders in the context of COVID-19 especially when complicated with pericardial effusion. Conclusion: The importance of pericardiocentesis early in order to allow better ventilation in any significant pericardial effusion case associated with COVID-19 infection and the need for prompt care escalation to centers where ECMO is available.

Keywords

• Pericardial effusion
• COVID-19
• Sideroblastic anemia
• YARS2
• ECMO