Brain perfusion single-photon emission computerized tomography/computerized tomography: Stroke-like manifestations of COVID-19 with transient antiphospholipid elevation

Abstract

COVID-19 is a viral respiratory disease associated with neurologic complications such as encephalitis or stroke in a minority of patients. The wide variety of neurologic manifestations with often unclear etiology may confound diagnosis and management. We present a young man admitted following an 8-day onset of self-resolving episodes of left hemiplegia and hemifacial droop. Diagnostic work up for seizures and stroke was largely negative. “Intra-ictal” ECD-single-photon emission computerized tomography/computerized tomography was consistent with right middle cerebral artery ischemia. Subsequent diagnostic work up revealed positive COVID-19 screening and newly-elevated antiphospholipid antibodies. Antiepileptic medications were discontinued, and the patient was successfully treated as an outpatient with corticosteroids leading to resolution of symptoms.