Fatal thrombotic microangiopathy with rhabdomyolysis as an initial symptom after the first dose of mRNA-1273 vaccine: A case report

Int J Infect Dis. 2022 Apr:117:322-325. doi: 10.1016/j.ijid.2022.02.031. Epub 2022 Feb 18.

Abstract

We report a case of a Japanese man with severe rhabdomyolysis and multiple thrombosis of arterioles after the first dose of mRNA-1273 vaccine. He developed rapidly progressive rhabdomyolysis and infarctions of multiple organs. Antiplatelet factor 4 antibody test was negative. Despite the intensive supportive care, including aggressive fluid administration, hemodialysis, administration of anticoagulants, high-dose steroid, and eculizumab, the patient ultimately died of multiple organ failure. Autopsy revealed multiple thrombosis in the arterioles and organ necrosis. Low serum complements and C3 deposition in the renal glomeruli detected by immunofluorescence suggested a possible immune-mediated mechanism. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of rhabdomyolysis and multiple thrombosis of the arterioles as an adverse event following COVID-19 vaccination.

Keywords: COVID-19; SARS-CoV-2; complemental activation; mRNA-1273; rhabdomyolysis; thrombosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • 2019-nCoV Vaccine mRNA-1273
  • COVID-19 Vaccines / adverse effects
  • COVID-19*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Rhabdomyolysis* / etiology
  • Thrombotic Microangiopathies* / etiology

Substances

  • COVID-19 Vaccines
  • 2019-nCoV Vaccine mRNA-1273