Case Report: Ischemic Colitis in Severe COVID-19 Pneumonia: An Unforeseen Gastrointestinal Complication

Abstract

Clinical manifestations and complications of SARS-CoV-2 are still emerging and variant. Gastrointestinal (GI) manifestations and complications are hugely under-recognized. The presence of angiotensin converting enzyme-2 receptors in the intestinal enterocytes, the receptors primarily involved in the pathogenesis of COVID-19 pneumonia, maybe the key factor contributing to the pathogenesis of GI manifestations. Ischemic colitis, although the most common ischemic pathology of the GI tract, is relatively rare, occurring as a result of colonic hypoperfusion. The innumerable causes of colonic ischemia are categorized into occlusive and nonocclusive pathologies. Here, we have discussed a case of severe COVID-19 pneumonia, developing ischemic colitis, as a rare GI complication. The cause of ischemia in COVID-19 pneumonia is multifactorial, including hypercoagulable state, coagulopathy leading to thromboembolic complications, and use of vasopressors in severely ill patients with hemodynamic compromise.