Catheter related atrial thrombosis in an infant: A case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Catheter-related thrombosis is one of the potential major complications of the central venous access devices; main risk factors include catheter-related blood stream infection and hypercoagulable state such as malignancy and systemic infections. Catheter-related atrial thrombosis is an under-reported complication of venous access devices of unclear prevalence rate, predisposing factors, screening recommendations and management guidelines, usually diagnosed incidentally on echocardiogram and managed by systemic anticoagulation with or without catheter preservation.Here we present the case of a 2700-g infant with catheter-related right atrial thrombosis who was successfully treated with anticoagulation therapy and preservation of the catheter. Potential risk factors for thrombosis in this case include dehydration caused by refractory diarrhea and feeding intolerance, urinary tract infection, and total parenteral nutrition containing dextrose. We have also performed a review of the literature on catheter-related atrial thrombosis in the pediatric age group.