Abstract
RATIONALE: Uterine leiomyomas, though commonly benign, can occasionally lead to serious complications, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). This study aims to highlight the uncommon yet serious association between large uterine leiomyomas and thromboembolism, which is often overlooked in patients without traditional risk factors. It emphasizes the need for awareness, early diagnosis, and timely intervention to prevent complications in patients presenting with unexplained symptoms and pelvic masses. PATIENT CONCERN: A 38-year-old gravida 5, para 2 woman presented to the emergency room with left lower extremity swelling, pain, and discoloration, accompanied by dyspnea. She had no prior history of DVT or PE and did not have any known risk factors for venous thromboembolism. DIAGNOSIS: The patient was diagnosed with DVT and PE, confirmed by venous duplex ultrasound and abdominal and pelvic computed tomography, which revealed thrombus extension to the left iliac vein. Chest computed tomography angiography confirmed a partially occlusive thrombus in the pulmonary arteries. INTERVENTION: The patient underwent mechanical aspiration thrombectomy, followed by placement of a left iliac stent. Anticoagulation therapy with heparin was initiated post-thrombectomy. On the third day, a right supracervical hysterectomy was successfully performed. After surgery, anticoagulation was continued with heparin, and the patient was later discharged on apixaban for ongoing therapy. OUTCOMES: The patient made full recovery with no recurrence of thromboembolic events at 11 months posttreatment. LESSONS: This case highlights the rare but serious complication of DVT and PE in patients with uterine leiomyomas. Timely intervention with thrombectomy, stent placement, and hysterectomy was effective in resolving the thromboembolic events.