# Recurrent Syncope Unveiling Pulmonary Hypertension Secondary to Pulmonary Artery Thrombi in a Pediatric Patient

## TL;DR

A 9-year-old girl with repeated fainting was found to have lung artery blood clots causing high blood pressure in the lungs, linked to an autoimmune condition.

## Contribution

Highlights a rare case linking anti-phospholipid syndrome to pediatric syncope and pulmonary hypertension.

## Key findings

- Pulmonary artery thrombi were identified as the cause of pulmonary hypertension in a pediatric patient.
- Anticoagulation therapy led to significant improvement in pulmonary hypertension and cessation of syncope.
- The case emphasizes the importance of considering autoimmune disorders in unexplained pediatric syncope.

## Abstract

We present a case of a nine-year-old female patient who presented with recurrent syncope and was ultimately diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension (PH) secondary to pulmonary artery thrombi in the context of anti-phospholipid syndrome (APS). Extensive investigations including imaging studies revealed PH. Thromboembolic workup confirmed multiple pulmonary artery thrombi, and anti-phospholipid antibody testing confirmed APS. The patient received anticoagulation therapy tailored to APS management. Follow-up assessments demonstrated significant improvement in PH leading to cessation of syncope episodes. In this case, we underscore the importance of considering rare causes of syncope in the pediatric age group, particularly autoimmune disorders. Timely recognition and appropriate management are crucial for favorable outcomes in such cases. This report contributes to understanding the diverse clinical presentations of APS and emphasizes the need for a comprehensive diagnostic approach in patients with unexplained syncope.