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Umakanthan S, Katwaroo AR, Bukelo M, Bg S, Boralingaiah P, Ranade AV, Rangan P, Shashidhar S, Kini JR, Kini G. Post-Acute Sequelae of Covid-19: A System-wise Approach on the Effects of Long-Covid-19. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICINE OPEN 2024; 12:100071. [PMID: 39268246 PMCID: PMC11387218 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajmo.2024.100071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024]
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly impacted global health, economics, and society. This review seeks to encompass an overview of current knowledge on COVID-19, including its transmission, pathogenesis, and clinical presentation related to various systems within the human body. COVID-19 is a highly contagious illness that has rapidly spread worldwide. As of August 4, 2023, the WHO reported over 570 million confirmed cases of COVID-19 and over 6.3 million deaths. Although the virus is most common in adults, children can also be infected. Respiratory droplets that are produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes are the primary transmission mode for COVID-19. Additionally, the virus can be disseminated via contact with contaminated surfaces or objects, as it can remain viable for several hours or days. SARS-CoV-2 is a respiratory virus that enters cells by bonding with the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor. Once inside the cell, the virus replicates and produces new particles that can infect other cells. Interestingly, the effects of post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC) encompass more than just respiratory system. The findings presented in the data suggest that PASC significantly impacts multiple organs and their respective physiological processes. In light of these observations, we aim to provide a detailed discussion of the relevant findings in this paper. Through our review, we hope to provide healthcare professionals with a deeper understanding of the effects of PASC on the human body, which could ultimately lead to improved patient outcomes and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srikanth Umakanthan
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Arun Rabindra Katwaroo
- Trinidad Institute of Medical Technology, Department of Medicine, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Maryann Bukelo
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Laboratory Services, North Central Regional Health Authority, Champ Fleurs, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Shashidhar Bg
- Department of Critical care Medicine, Manipal Hospital, Bengaluru, India
| | - Prashanth Boralingaiah
- Early Psychosis Prevention and Intervention Center (EPPIC), Orygen Youth Health, Sunshine, Australia
| | - Anu V Ranade
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | | | | | - Jyoti Ramanath Kini
- Department of Pathology, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Karnataka, India
| | - Gayathri Kini
- Department of Pathology, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Karnataka, India
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Hamdy RM, Samy M, Mohamed HS. Clinical utility of ambulatory ECG monitoring and 2D-ventricular strain for evaluation of post-COVID-19 ventricular arrhythmia. BMC Cardiovasc Disord 2024; 24:429. [PMID: 39148011 PMCID: PMC11328462 DOI: 10.1186/s12872-024-03982-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A relatively common complication of COVID -19 infection is arrhythmia. There is limited information about myocardial deformation and heart rate variability (HRV) in symptomatic post COVID patients presented by ventricular arrhythmia. AIM OF THE STUDY Our goal was to assess 2D-ventricular strain and heart rate variability indices (evaluated by ambulatory ECG monitoring) in post-COVID-19 patients suffering from ventricular arrhythmia. METHODS The current observational case-control study performed on 60 patients one month after they had recovered from the COVID-19 infection. Thirty healthy volunteers served as the control group. Each participant had a full medical history review, blood tests, a 12-lead surface electrocardiogram (ECG), 24-h ambulatory ECG monitoring, and an echo-Doppler examination to evaluate the left ventricular (LV) dimensions, tissue Doppler velocities, and 2D-speckle tracking echocardiography (2D-STE) for both the LV and right ventricular (RV) strain. RESULTS Symptomatic post-COVID patients with monomorphic premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) showed a substantial impairment of LV/RV systolic and diastolic functions, LV/RV myocardial performance (MPI) with reduced indices of HRV. Patients with higher versus lower ventricular burden had poorer functional status, higher levels of inflammatory biomarkers and reduced parameters of HRV (New York Heart Association (NYHA) class: 2.1 ± 0.9 vs. 1.5 ± 0.6, p < 0.001, C-reactive protein (CRP): 13.3 ± 4.1 vs. 8.3 ± 5.9 mg/L, p < 0.0001, low frequency/high frequency (LF/HF): 3.6 ± 2.4 vs. 2.2 ± 1.2, p < 0.002, the root mean square of the difference between successive normal intervals (rMSSD): 21.8 ± 4.7 vs. 29.3 ± 14.9 ms, p < 0.039 and the standard deviation of the RR interval (SDNN): 69.8 ± 19.1 vs.108.8 ± 37.4 ms, p < 0.0001). The ventricular burden positively correlated with neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR) (r = 0.33, p < 0.001), CRP (r = 0.60, p < 0.0001), while it negatively correlated with LV-global longitudinal strain (GLS) (r = -0.38, p < 0.0001), and RV-GLS (r = -0.37, p < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS Patients with post-COVID symptoms presented by ventricular arrhythmia had poor functional status. Patients with post-COVID symptoms and ventricular arrhythmia had subclinical myocardial damage, evidenced by speckle tracking echocardiography while having apparently preserved LV systolic function. The burden of ventricular arrhythmia in post-COVID patients significantly correlated with increased inflammatory biomarkers and reduced biventricular strain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rehab M Hamdy
- Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine (for Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Mohammed Samy
- Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine (for Boys), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Huda Shaban Mohamed
- Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine (for Girls), Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
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Kounis NG, Gogos C, de Gregorio C, Hung MY, Kounis SN, Tsounis EP, Assimakopoulos SF, Pourmasumi S, Mplani V, Servos G, Dousdampanis P, Plotas P, Michalaki MA, Tsigkas G, Grammatikopoulos G, Velissaris D, Koniar I. "When," "Where," and "How" of SARS-CoV-2 Infection Affects the Human Cardiovascular System: A Narrative Review. Balkan Med J 2024; 41:7-22. [PMID: 38173173 PMCID: PMC10767774 DOI: 10.4274/balkanmedj.galenos.2023.2023-10-25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is caused by the novel severe acute respiratory coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). Several explanations for the development of cardiovascular complications during and after acute COVID-19 infection have been hypothesized. The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has emerged as one of the deadliest pandemics in modern history. The myocardial injury in COVID-19 patients has been associated with coronary spasm, microthrombi formation, plaque rupture, hypoxic injury, or cytokine storm, which have the same pathophysiology as the three clinical variants of Kounis syndrome. The angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), reninaldosterone system (RAAS), and kinin-kallikrein system are the main proposed mechanisms contributing to cardiovascular complications with the COVID-19 infection. ACE receptors can be found in the heart, blood vessels, endothelium, lungs, intestines, testes, neurons, and other human body parts. SARS-CoV-2 directly invades the endothelial cells with ACE2 receptors and constitutes the main pathway through which the virus enters the endothelial cells. This causes angiotensin II accumulation downregulation of the ACE2 receptors, resulting in prothrombotic effects, such as hemostatic imbalance via activation of the coagulation cascade, impaired fibrinolysis, thrombin generation, vasoconstriction, endothelial and platelet activation, and pro-inflammatory cytokine release. The KKS system typically causes vasodilation and regulates tissue repair, inflammation, cell proliferation, and platelet aggregation, but SARS-CoV-2 infection impairs such counterbalancing effects. This cascade results in cardiac arrhythmias, cardiac arrest, cardiomyopathy, cytokine storm, heart failure, ischemic myocardial injuries, microvascular disease, Kounis syndrome, prolonged COVID, myocardial fibrosis, myocarditis, new-onset hypertension, pericarditis, postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, pulmonary hypertension, stroke, Takotsubo syndrome, venous thromboembolism, and thrombocytopenia. In this narrative review, we describe and elucidate when, where, and how COVID-19 affects the human cardiovascular system in various parts of the human body that are vulnerable in every patient category, including children and athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas G. Kounis
- Department of Cardiology, University of Patras Medical School, Rio, Greece
| | - Christos Gogos
- Clinic of Cardiology, COVID-19 Unit, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Pavlos Melas, Greece
| | - Cesare de Gregorio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina Medical School, Messina, Italy
| | - Ming-Yow Hung
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | | | - Efthymios P. Tsounis
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University Hospital of Patras, Rio, Greece
| | - Stelios F. Assimakopoulos
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Patras Medical School, Rio, Greece
| | - Soheila Pourmasumi
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Virginia Mplani
- Intensive Care Unit, Patras University Hospital, Rio, Greece
| | - George Servos
- Pediatric Cardiology Unit, “P. & A. Kyriakou” Children’s Hospital, Athina, Greece
| | | | - Panagiotis Plotas
- Department of Cardiology, University of Patras Medical School, Rio, Greece
| | - Marina A. Michalaki
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, University of Patras, School of Health Sciences, Rio, Greece
| | - Grigorios Tsigkas
- Department of Cardiology, University of Patras Medical School, Rio, Greece
| | | | - Dimitrios Velissaris
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Patras Medical School, Rio, Greece
| | - Ioanna Koniar
- Electrophysiology and Device Department, University Hospital of South Manchester NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, United Kingdom
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Askar M, Karaduman M, Coldur R, Askar S. Relationship of right ventricular functions with in-hospital and 1 year later mortality in patients hospitalized for COVID-19 pneumonia. Ann Thorac Med 2024; 19:96-104. [PMID: 38444992 PMCID: PMC10911235 DOI: 10.4103/atm.atm_172_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to determine the association of right ventricular function with in-hospital mortality and mortality 1 year after discharge in patients hospitalized for COVID-19 pneumonia. METHODS The study was conducted in Van Yuzuncu Yil University Faculty of Medicine hospital between February 10, 2021 and August 10, 2022. A total of 156 patients hospitalized in intensive care and wards due to COVID-19 pneumonia were included in this study. Echocardiography was performed in all patients. RESULTS Among the demographic findings of the patients included in the study, male gender, patients hospitalized in the intensive care unit (ICU), patients receiving O2 support, and smokers were found to have higher mortality rates during hospitalization. At the end of 1 year, the mortality rate was higher in patients who were hospitalized in the ICU received O2 support and had diabetes mellitus. Among echocardiographic findings, those with a low left ventricular ejection fraction had higher early and 1-year mortality rates. Of the right ventricular functions, low fractional area change, high systolic pulmonary artery pressure (SPAP), shortened pulmonary acceleration time, low right ventricle systolic wave S' velocity, increased right atrium area, and inferior vena cava diameter were found to be associated with high mortality. Increased right atrial area and inferior vena cava diameter, increased SPAP, and shortened pulmonary acceleration time were found to be significant in 1-year mortality. The presence of pericardial effusion was associated with mortality during hospitalization but not with 1-year mortality. B-type natriuretic peptide, D-dimer, and hemoglobin levels were significantly correlated with both hospital mortality and 1-year mortality. CONCLUSIONS In the follow-up of COVID-19 pneumonia, right ventricular function is considered to be an important factor in early and late mortality. It could be helpful to establish a follow-up program for discharged patients from the parameters involved in mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muntecep Askar
- Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, Van Yuzuncu Yil University, Van, Turkey
| | - Medeni Karaduman
- Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, Van Yuzuncu Yil University, Van, Turkey
| | - Rabia Coldur
- Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, Van Yuzuncu Yil University, Van, Turkey
| | - Selvi Askar
- Department of Chest Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Van Yuzuncu Yil University, Van, Turkey
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Pietraszko P, Zorawski M, Bielecka E, Sielatycki P, Zbroch E. Mid-Regional Proadrenomedullin in COVID-19-May It Act as a Predictor of Prolonged Cardiovascular Complications? Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16821. [PMID: 38069140 PMCID: PMC10705931 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The rising prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic have both led to increased mortality rates, affecting public health and the global economy. Therefore, it is essential to find accessible, non-invasive prognostic markers capable of identifying patients at high risk. One encouraging avenue of exploration is the potential of mid-regional proadrenomedullin (MR-proADM) as a biomarker in various health conditions, especially in the context of CVD and COVID-19. MR-proADM presents the ability to predict mortality, heart failure, and adverse outcomes in CVD, offering promise for improved risk assessment and treatment strategies. On the other hand, an elevated MR-proADM level is associated with disease severity and cytokine storms in patients with COVID-19, making it a predictive indicator for intensive care unit admissions and mortality rates. Moreover, MR-proADM may have relevance in long COVID, aiding in the risk assessment, triage, and monitoring of individuals at increased risk of developing prolonged cardiac issues. Our review explores the potential of MR-proADM as a predictor of enduring cardiovascular complications following COVID-19 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Edyta Zbroch
- Department of Internal Medicine and Hypertension, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-089 Bialystok, Poland; (P.P.); (M.Z.); (E.B.); (P.S.)
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Parhizgar P, Yazdankhah N, Rzepka AM, Chung KYC, Ali I, Lai Fat Fur R, Russell V, Cheung AM. Beyond Acute COVID-19: A Review of Long-term Cardiovascular Outcomes. Can J Cardiol 2023; 39:726-740. [PMID: 36754119 PMCID: PMC9901229 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjca.2023.01.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Statistics Canada estimated that approximately 1.4 million Canadians suffer from long COVID. Although cardiovascular changes during acute SARS-CoV-2 infection are well documented, long-term cardiovascular sequelae are less understood. In this review, we sought to characterize adult cardiovascular outcomes in the months after acute COVID-19 illness. In our search we identified reports of outcomes including cardiac dysautonomia, myocarditis, ischemic injuries, and ventricular dysfunction. Even in patients without overt cardiac outcomes, subclinical changes have been observed. Cardiovascular sequelae after SARS-CoV-2 infection can stem from exacerbation of preexisting conditions, ongoing inflammation, or as a result of damage that occurred during acute infection. For example, myocardial fibrosis has been reported months after hospital admission for COVID-19 illness, and might be a consequence of myocarditis and myocardial injury during acute disease. In turn, myocardial fibrosis can contribute to further outcomes including dysrhythmias and heart failure. Severity of acute infection might be a risk factor for long-term cardiovascular consequences, however, cardiovascular changes have also been reported in young, healthy individuals who had asymptomatic or mild acute disease. Although evolving evidence suggests that previous SARS-CoV-2 infection might be a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, there is heterogeneity in existing evidence, and some studies are marred by measured and unmeasured confounders. Many investigations have also been limited by relatively short follow-up. Future studies should focus on longer term outcomes (beyond 1 year) and identifying the prevalence of outcomes in different populations on the basis of acute and long COVID disease severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parinaz Parhizgar
- Department of Medicine and Joint Department of Medical Imaging, Toronto Hospital Research Institute and Schroeder Arthritis Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nima Yazdankhah
- Department of Medicine and Joint Department of Medical Imaging, Toronto Hospital Research Institute and Schroeder Arthritis Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anna M Rzepka
- Department of Medicine and Joint Department of Medical Imaging, Toronto Hospital Research Institute and Schroeder Arthritis Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kit Yan Christie Chung
- Department of Medicine and Joint Department of Medical Imaging, Toronto Hospital Research Institute and Schroeder Arthritis Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Irfan Ali
- Department of Medicine and Joint Department of Medical Imaging, Toronto Hospital Research Institute and Schroeder Arthritis Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rachel Lai Fat Fur
- Department of Medicine and Joint Department of Medical Imaging, Toronto Hospital Research Institute and Schroeder Arthritis Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Victoria Russell
- Department of Medicine and Joint Department of Medical Imaging, Toronto Hospital Research Institute and Schroeder Arthritis Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Angela M Cheung
- Department of Medicine and Joint Department of Medical Imaging, Toronto Hospital Research Institute and Schroeder Arthritis Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Kersten J, Schellenberg J, Jerg A, Kirsten J, Persch H, Liu Y, Steinacker JM. Strain Echocardiography in Acute COVID-19 and Post-COVID Syndrome: More than Just a Snapshot. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1236. [PMID: 37189854 PMCID: PMC10135834 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11041236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Speckle-tracking echocardiography (STE) has become an established, widely available diagnostic method in the past few years, making its value clear in cases of COVID-19 and the further course of the disease, including post-COVID syndrome. Since the beginning of the pandemic, many studies have been published on the use of STE in this condition, enabling, on the one hand, a better understanding of myocardial involvement in COVID-19 and, on the other, a better identification of risk to patients, although some questions remain unanswered in regard to specific pathomechanisms, especially in post-COVID patients. This review takes a closer look at current findings and potential future developments by summarising the extant data on the use of STE, with a focus on left and right ventricular longitudinal strain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Kersten
- Division for Sports and Rehabilitation Medicine, University Hospital of Ulm, 89075 Ulm, Germany
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Cecchetto A, Torreggiani G, Guarnieri G, Vianello A, Baroni G, Palermo C, Bertagna De Marchi L, Lorenzoni G, Bartolotta P, Bertaglia E, Donato F, Aruta P, Iliceto S, Mele D. Subclinical Myocardial Injury in Patients Recovered from COVID-19 Pneumonia: Predictors and Longitudinal Assessment. J Cardiovasc Dev Dis 2023; 10:jcdd10040179. [PMID: 37103058 PMCID: PMC10144016 DOI: 10.3390/jcdd10040179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Emerging data regarding patients recovered from COVID-19 are reported in the literature, but cardiac sequelae have not yet been clarified. To quickly detect any cardiac involvement at follow-up, the aims of the research were to identify: elements at admission predisposing subclinical myocardial injury at follow up; the relationship between subclinical myocardial injury and multiparametric evaluation at follow-up; and subclinical myocardial injury longitudinal evolution. (2) Methods and Results: A total of 229 consecutive patients hospitalised for moderate to severe COVID-19 pneumonia were initially enrolled, of which 225 were available for follow-up. All patients underwent a first follow-up visit, which included a clinical evaluation, a laboratory test, echocardiography, a six-minute walking test (6MWT), and a pulmonary functional test. Of the 225 patients, 43 (19%) underwent a second follow-up visit. The median time to the first follow-up after discharge was 5 months, and the median time to the second follow-up after discharge was 12 months. Left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LVGLS) and right ventricular free wall strain (RVFWS) were reduced in 36% (n = 81) and 7.2% (n = 16) of the patients, respectively, at first the follow-up visit. LVGLS impairment showed correlations with patients of male gender (p 0.008, OR 2.32 (95% CI 1.24-4.42)), the presence of at least one cardiovascular risk factor (p < 0.001, OR 6.44 (95% CI 3.07-14.9)), and final oxygen saturation (p 0.002, OR 0.99 (95% CI 0.98-1)) for the 6MWTs. Subclinical myocardial dysfunction had not significantly improved at the 12-month follow-ups. (3) Conclusions: in patients recovered from COVID-19 pneumonia, left ventricular subclinical myocardial injury was related to cardiovascular risk factors and appeared stable during follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Cecchetto
- Department of Cardiac Thoracic Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy
| | - Gianpaolo Torreggiani
- Department of Cardiac Thoracic Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy
| | - Gabriella Guarnieri
- Respiratory Pathophysiology Division, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy
| | - Andrea Vianello
- Respiratory Pathophysiology Division, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy
| | - Giulia Baroni
- Department of Cardiac Thoracic Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy
| | - Chiara Palermo
- Department of Cardiac Thoracic Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy
| | | | - Giulia Lorenzoni
- Department of Cardiac Thoracic Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy
| | - Patrizia Bartolotta
- Department of Cardiac Thoracic Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy
| | - Emanuele Bertaglia
- Department of Cardiac Thoracic Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy
| | - Filippo Donato
- Department of Cardiac Thoracic Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy
| | - Patrizia Aruta
- Department of Cardiac Thoracic Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy
| | - Sabino Iliceto
- Department of Cardiac Thoracic Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy
| | - Donato Mele
- Department of Cardiac Thoracic Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy
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9
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Coronary calcium score in COVID-19 survivors: Association with cardiac injury and cardiac function after 6 weeks. AMERICAN HEART JOURNAL PLUS : CARDIOLOGY RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2023; 27:100280. [PMID: 36852285 PMCID: PMC9946728 DOI: 10.1016/j.ahjo.2023.100280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
Aims Cardiac manifestations are common in COVID-19, often elevated serum troponin levels or myocardial dysfunction on trans-thoracic echocardiography (TTE) is observed. Both parameters are associated with increased in-hospital mortality. Possibly, subclinical coronary atherosclerosis plays a role, of which severity can be assessed by calculating the coronary artery calcium (CAC) score. This study aims to determine the relation between coronary atherosclerosis and cardiac manifestations in COVID-19 survivors. Methods This study was conducted at the Leiden University Medical Center. All patients admitted for COVID-19 were included and scheduled for a 6-week follow-up visit with trans-thoracic echocardiography (TTE). CAC was assessed according to an ordinal score on non-gated, non-contrast enhanced computed tomography of the chest. Patients with and without CAC were compared on cardiac injury as reflected by elevated serum troponin levels and impaired cardiac function assessed through TTE. Results In total, 146 patients were included. Mean age was 62 years and 62 % of the patients were male. During admission, patients with CAC showed significantly higher levels of troponin (19 ng/L vs 10 ng/L; p < 0.01). Overall, mild echocardiographic abnormalities were seen; 12 % showed reduced left ventricular function (left ventricular ejection fraction of <50 %) and 14 % reduced right ventricular function (tricuspid annular planar systolic excursion ≤17 mm). Following multivariable adjustments, there was no significant relation between CAC and myocardial function at 6 weeks. Conclusion The present study shows that coronary atherosclerosis is associated with cardiac injury in COVID-19 survivors. However, no significant relation with impaired cardiac function was demonstrated.
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Elffers TW, de Graaf MA, Regeer MV, Omara S, Schalij MJ, Groeneveld GH, Roukens AHE, Geelhoed JJM, Antoni ML. Myocardial function in COVID-19 patients after hospital discharge: a descriptive study comparing the first and second 'wave' patients. Int J Cardiovasc Imaging 2022; 38:1951-1960. [PMID: 37726605 PMCID: PMC9013213 DOI: 10.1007/s10554-022-02590-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
In hospitalized COVID-19 patients, myocardial injury and echocardiographic abnormalities have been described. The present study investigates cardiac function in COVID-19 patients 6 weeks post-discharge and evaluates its relation to New York Heart Association (NYHA) class. Furthermore cardiac function post-discharge between the first and second wave COVID-19 patients was compared. We evaluated 146 patients at the outpatient clinic of the Leiden University Medical Centre. NYHA class of II or higher was reported by 53% of patients. Transthoracic echocardiography was used to assess cardiac function. Overall, in 27% of patients reduced left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction was observed and in 29% of patients LV global longitudinal strain was impaired (> - 16%). However no differences were observed in these parameters reflecting LV function between the first and second wave patients. Right ventricular (RV) dysfunction as assessed by tricuspid annular systolic planar excursion (< 17 mm) was present in 14% of patients, this was also not different between the first and second wave patients (15% vs. 12%; p = 0.63); similar results were found for RV fraction area change and RV strain. Reduced LV and RV function were not associated with NYHA class. In COVID-19 patients at 6 weeks post-discharge, mild abnormalities in cardiac function were found. However these were not related to NYHA class and there was no difference in cardiac function between the first and second wave patients. Long term symptoms post-COVID might therefore not be explained by mildly abnormal cardiac function.
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Affiliation(s)
- T W Elffers
- Department of Cardiology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Albinusdreef 2, 2333ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - M A de Graaf
- Department of Cardiology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Albinusdreef 2, 2333ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - M V Regeer
- Department of Cardiology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Albinusdreef 2, 2333ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - S Omara
- Department of Cardiology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Albinusdreef 2, 2333ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - M J Schalij
- Department of Cardiology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Albinusdreef 2, 2333ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - G H Groeneveld
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - A H E Roukens
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Internal Medicine, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - J J M Geelhoed
- Department of Pulmonology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - M L Antoni
- Department of Cardiology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Albinusdreef 2, 2333ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands.
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11
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Rácz G, Takács H, Kormányos Á, Polestyuk B, Borbás J, Gyenes N, Schvartz N, Németh G, Kincses ZT, Sepp R, Nagy V. Screening for Myocardial Injury after Mild SARS-CoV-2 Infection with Advanced Transthoracic Echocardiography Modalities. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12081941. [PMID: 36010290 PMCID: PMC9406902 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12081941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Although the clinical manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 viral infection affect mainly the respiratory system, cardiac complications are common and are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. While echocardiographic alterations indicating myocardial involvement are widely reported in patients hospitalized for acute COVID-19 infection, much fewer data available in non-hospitalized, mildly symptomatic COVID-19 patients. In our work, we aimed to investigate subclinical cardiac alterations characterized by parameters provided by advanced echocardiographic techniques following mild SARS-CoV-2 viral infection. A total of 86 patients (30 males, age: 39.5 ± 13.0 yrs) were assessed 59 ± 33 days after mild SARS-CoV-2 viral infection (requiring no hospital or <5 days in-hospital treatment) by advanced echocardiographic examination including 2-dimensional (2D) speckle tracking echocardiography and non-invasive myocardial work analysis, and were compared to an age-and sex-matched control group. Altogether, variables from eleven echocardiographic categories representing morphological or functional echocardiographic parameters showed statistical difference between the post-COVID patient group and the control group. The magnitude of change was subtle or mild in the case of these parameters, ranging from 1−11.7% of relative change. Among the parameters, global longitudinal strain [−20.3 (−21.1−−19.0) vs. −19.1 (−20.4−−17.6) %; p = 0.0007], global myocardial work index [1975 (1789−2105) vs. 1829 (1656−2057) Hgmm%; p = 0.007] and right ventricular free wall strain values (−26.6 ± 3.80 vs. −23.8 ± 4.0%; p = 0.0003) showed the most significant differences between the two groups. Subclinical cardiac alterations are present following even mild SARS-CoV-2 viral infection. These more subtle alterations are difficult to detect by routine echocardiography. Extended protocols, involving speckle-tracking echocardiography, non-invasive measurement of cardiac hemodynamics, and possibly myocardial work are necessary for detection and adequate follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gergely Rácz
- Division of Non-Invasive Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Hedvig Takács
- Division of Non-Invasive Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Árpád Kormányos
- Division of Non-Invasive Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Bianka Polestyuk
- Division of Non-Invasive Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary
| | - János Borbás
- Division of Non-Invasive Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Nándor Gyenes
- Division of Non-Invasive Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Noémi Schvartz
- Division of Non-Invasive Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Gergely Németh
- Division of Non-Invasive Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary
| | | | - Róbert Sepp
- Division of Non-Invasive Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +36-30-267-5845; Fax: +36-62-545-820
| | - Viktória Nagy
- Division of Non-Invasive Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary
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12
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Singh J, Bhagaloo L, Sy E, Lavoie AJ, Dehghani P, Bardutz HA, Mang CS, Buttigieg J, Neary JP. Cardiac impairments in postacute COVID-19 with sustained symptoms: A review of the literature and proof of concept. Physiol Rep 2022; 10:e15430. [PMID: 35993433 PMCID: PMC9393908 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.15430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Although acute COVID-19 is known to cause cardiac damage in some cases, there is still much to learn about the duration and relative permanence of the damage that may occur. Long COVID is a condition that can occur when COVID-19 symptoms remain in the postviral acute period. Varying accounts of long COVID have been described across the literature, however, cardiac impairments are sustained in many individuals and cardiovascular assessment is now considered to be an expected follow-up examination. The purpose of this review and proof of concept is to summarize the current research related to the assessment of cardiac function, including echocardiography and blood biomarker data, during the follow-up period in patients who recovered from COVID-19. Following a literature review, it was found that right ventricular dysfunction along with global longitudinal strain and diastolic dysfunction are common findings. Finally, more severe acute myocardial injury during the index hospitalization appears to exacerbate cardiac function. The available literature implies that cardiac function must be monitored in patients recovered from COVID-19 who remain symptomatic and that the impairments and severity vary from person-to-person. The proof-of-concept analysis of patients with cardiac disease and respiratory disease in comparison to those with sustained symptoms from COVID-19 suggests elevated systolic time interval in those with sustained symptoms from COVID-19, thus reducing heart performance indices. Future research must consider the details of cardiac complications during the acute infection period and relate this to the cardiac function in patients with long COVID during mid- and long-term follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyotpal Singh
- Faculty of Kinesiology and Health StudiesUniversity of ReginaReginaSaskatchewanCanada
- Department of CardiologyPrairie Vascular Research Inc, Saskatchewan Health AuthorityReginaSaskatchewanCanada
| | - Lanishen Bhagaloo
- Gateway Alliance MedicalReginaSaskatchewanCanada
- College of MedicineUniversity of SaskatchewanSaskatoonSaskatchewanCanada
- Department of Family MedicineSaskatchewan Health AuthorityReginaSaskatchewanCanada
| | - Eric Sy
- Department of Critical CareSaskatchewan Health AuthorityReginaSaskatchewanCanada
- College of MedicineUniversity of SaskatchewanReginaSaskatchewanCanada
- College of Graduate and Postdoctoral StudiesUniversity of SaskatchewanSaskatoonSaskatchewanCanada
| | - Andrea J. Lavoie
- Department of CardiologyPrairie Vascular Research Inc, Saskatchewan Health AuthorityReginaSaskatchewanCanada
- College of MedicineUniversity of SaskatchewanReginaSaskatchewanCanada
| | - Payam Dehghani
- Department of CardiologyPrairie Vascular Research Inc, Saskatchewan Health AuthorityReginaSaskatchewanCanada
- College of MedicineUniversity of SaskatchewanReginaSaskatchewanCanada
| | - Holly A. Bardutz
- Faculty of Kinesiology and Health StudiesUniversity of ReginaReginaSaskatchewanCanada
| | - Cameron S. Mang
- Faculty of Kinesiology and Health StudiesUniversity of ReginaReginaSaskatchewanCanada
| | - Josef Buttigieg
- Faculty of Science, Department of BiologyUniversity of ReginaReginaSaskatchewanCanada
| | - J. Patrick Neary
- Faculty of Kinesiology and Health StudiesUniversity of ReginaReginaSaskatchewanCanada
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13
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Mohamad Y, El-Sherif R, Adel Gawish M, Abdrabo I, Mowafy HH. Right Ventricular Assessment in Critically Ill COVID-19 Patients and its Prognostic Importance. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2022.9172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background; Cardiac injury is a prevalent complication and is associated with worse prognosis in COVID-19 patients. The increased cardiac workload resulting from respiratory failure and hypoxemia is a common mechanism of cardiac injury and the right ventricle may bear the brunt of its impact. The aim of the present study was to determine the incidence and prognostic value of RV dysfunction in COVID-19 patients admitted to ICU using conventional echocardiography parameters.Patients were subjected to full history taking, and clinical examination, Computed Tomography of chest was done for all patients to assess severity of lung infiltration, all patients received standard treatment according to Ministry of Health and Population COVID19 treatment protocol recommendations. Echocardiographic assessment was done to all patients.The mean age of the patients was 61.10±9.64years (range 42-80years).There were 36 (60%) male and 24 (40%) female. The non-survivor group consisted of 28 patients (46.7%) and survivors consisted of 32 patients (53.3%). There was statistically significant association between mortality and RV function regarding TAPSE, FAC%, RV basal diameter and EPAP. We concluded that in COVID-19 patients, RV function must be assessed and its prognostic importance recognized. RV dysfunction is not only a symptom of high pulmonary pressures, but it also contributes to cardiac insufficiency.
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