| Possible Neonatal Post-COVID-19 Coagulopathy Presenting with Convulsions: A Case Report |
| Paper ID : 1279-IGA |
| Authors |
|
Vera Beca * University Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology ‘Queen Geraldine’, Tirana, Albania |
| Abstract |
| Background and Aim: The COVID-19 pandemic poses unique risks during pregnancy, including potential neonatal complications linked to maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection. While neonatal COVID-19 infections are generally mild, emerging evidence suggests possible post-infectious complications such as coagulopathy and neurological manifestations like convulsions. This case report aims to describe a neonate presenting with convulsions postulated to be associated with post-COVID-19 coagulopathy secondary to maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection. Methods: A full-term neonate born via cesarean section to a mother with prior COVID-19 infection during pregnancy was clinically assessed following onset of convulsions on day 4 of life. The evaluation included laboratory tests (COVID-19 RT-PCR, TORCH screening, coagulation profile, blood counts, D-dimer), imaging studies (abdominal ultrasound, echoencephalography, CT scan of the head), and clinical monitoring. Treatment was administered with plasma transfusion, steroids, antibiotics, vitamin K, and supportive oxygen therapy. Differential diagnosis excluded sepsis, perinatal asphyxia, and other common causes of neonatal convulsions. Results: The neonate was negative for SARS-CoV-2 by RT-PCR but demonstrated elevated D-dimer levels and imaging evidence of intraventricular hemorrhage. Clinical symptoms included partial convulsions and irritability. Coagulation tests showed abnormalities consistent with a hyperimmune-mediated coagulopathy. With appropriate supportive treatment, the baby stabilized and was discharged without further seizures. The findings support the hypothesis of neonatal post-COVID-19 coagulopathy linked to maternal antibody transfer and hyperimmune response. Conclusion: Neonatal post-COVID-19 coagulopathy presenting with convulsions is a rare but important clinical entity needing awareness among clinicians, especially when mothers have a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy. Further research is essential to establish diagnostic criteria, pathophysiology, and standardized treatment protocols for this emerging condition. Early recognition and careful exclusion of other causes are critical to optimizing neonatal outcomes. |
| Keywords |
| Neonatal, COVID-19, Coagulopathy, Convulsions, SARS-CoV-2, Neonate, Post-infectious complications |
| Status: Accepted |
