COVID-19 vaccine-associated immune thrombosis and thrombocytopenia (VITT): Diagnostic and therapeutic recommendations for a new syndrome

Very rare cases of thrombosis associated with thrombocytopenia have occurred following the vaccination with AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine. The aim of this concise review is to summarize the current knowledge on the epidemiologic and pathogenic mechanisms of this syndrome named vaccine-associated immune thrombosis and thrombocytopenia (VITT). A practical patient management section will also be dealt with using information available from national and international scientific societies as well as expert panels. A literature search on the VITT syndrome was carried out in PubMed using appropriate MeSH headings. Overall, 40 VITT cases have been reported. Continuous pharmacovigilance monitoring is needed to collect more data on the real incidence and the pathogenesis of VITT syndrome. Such information will also help us to optimize the management this rare but often clinically severe thrombotic condition associated with COVID-19 vaccination.

Automated summary

This concise review summarizes the epidemiologic and pathogenic mechanisms of vaccine-associated immune thrombosis and thrombocytopenia (VITT). A total of 40 VITT cases have been reported, emphasizing the need for continuous pharmacovigilance monitoring to collect more data and optimize patient management.