Giant Aortic Thrombus in the Ascending Aorta and Perforation of Bowel Associated With Cocaine Use

Abstract

A floating giant aortic thrombus is a rare finding in the absence of any coagulation disorder. Patients usually remain asymptomatic until the development of embolic complications. Our report highlights cocaine abuse as a potential cause of aortic thrombus and bowel perforation. Clinicians should have a high index of suspicion when treating patients with a history of illicit cocaine use with signs and symptoms of arterial ischemia. The risks of cardiovascular and abdominal complications related to cocaine use should not be underestimated. Prompt diagnosis is required to circumvent potentially life-threatening complications.