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Ippolito D, Maino C, Vernuccio F, Cannella R, Inchingolo R, Dezio M, Faletti R, Bonaffini PA, Gatti M, Sironi S. Liver involvement in patients with COVID-19 infection: A comprehensive overview of diagnostic imaging features. World J Gastroenterol 2023; 29:834-850. [PMID: 36816623 PMCID: PMC9932422 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v29.i5.834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
During the first wave of the pandemic, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection has been considered mainly as a pulmonary infection. However, different clinical and radiological manifestations were observed over time, including involvement of abdominal organs. Nowadays, the liver is considered one of the main affected abdominal organs. Hepatic involvement may be caused by either a direct damage by the virus or an indirect damage related to COVID-19 induced thrombosis or to the use of different drugs. After clinical assessment, radiology plays a key role in the evaluation of liver involvement. Ultrasonography (US), computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used to evaluate liver involvement. US is widely available and it is considered the first-line technique to assess liver involvement in COVID-19 infection, in particular liver steatosis and portal-vein thrombosis. CT and MRI are used as second- and third-line techniques, respectively, considering their higher sensitivity and specificity compared to US for assessment of both parenchyma and vascularization. This review aims to the spectrum of COVID-19 liver involvement and the most common imaging features of COVID-19 liver damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Ippolito
- Milano Bicocca School of Medicine and Surgery, Milano 20126, Italy
- Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza 20900, Italy
| | - Cesare Maino
- Fondazione IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza 20900, Italy
| | - Federica Vernuccio
- Institute of Radiology (DIMED), University Hospital of Padova, Padova 35128, Italy
| | - Roberto Cannella
- Section of Radiology-Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (BiND), University of Palermo, Palermo 90127, Italy
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo 90127, Italy
| | - Riccardo Inchingolo
- Division of Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, Madonna delle Grazie Hospital, Matera 75100, Italy
| | - Michele Dezio
- Division of Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, Madonna delle Grazie Hospital, Matera 75100, Italy
| | - Riccardo Faletti
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin 10126, Italy
| | - Pietro Andrea Bonaffini
- Milano Bicocca School of Medicine and Surgery, Milano 20126, Italy
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Papa Giovanni XXIII Hospital, Bergamo 24127, Italy
| | - Marco Gatti
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, University of Turin, Turin 10126, Italy
| | - Sandro Sironi
- Milano Bicocca School of Medicine and Surgery, Milano 20126, Italy
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Papa Giovanni XXIII Hospital, Bergamo 24127, Italy
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Laino ME, Ammirabile A, Motta F, De Santis M, Savevski V, Francone M, Chiti A, Mannelli L, Selmi C, Monti L. Advanced Imaging Supports the Mechanistic Role of Autoimmunity and Plaque Rupture in COVID-19 Heart Involvement. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2023; 64:75-89. [PMID: 35089505 PMCID: PMC8796606 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-022-08925-1] [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] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The cardiovascular system is frequently affected by coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19), particularly in hospitalized cases, and these manifestations are associated with a worse prognosis. Most commonly, heart involvement is represented by myocarditis, myocardial infarction, and pulmonary embolism, while arrhythmias, heart valve damage, and pericarditis are less frequent. While the clinical suspicion is necessary for a prompt disease recognition, imaging allows the early detection of cardiovascular complications in patients with COVID-19. The combination of cardiothoracic approaches has been proposed for advanced imaging techniques, i.e., CT scan and MRI, for a simultaneous evaluation of cardiovascular structures, pulmonary arteries, and lung parenchyma. Several mechanisms have been proposed to explain the cardiovascular injury, and among these, it is established that the host immune system is responsible for the aberrant response characterizing severe COVID-19 and inducing organ-specific injury. We illustrate novel evidence to support the hypothesis that molecular mimicry may be the immunological mechanism for myocarditis in COVID-19. The present article provides a comprehensive review of the available evidence of the immune mechanisms of the COVID-19 cardiovascular injury and the imaging tools to be used in the diagnostic workup. As some of these techniques cannot be implemented for general screening of all cases, we critically discuss the need to maximize the sustainability and the specificity of the proposed tests while illustrating the findings of some paradigmatic cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Elena Laino
- grid.417728.f0000 0004 1756 8807Artificial Intelligence Center, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Angela Ammirabile
- grid.417728.f0000 0004 1756 8807Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan Italy ,grid.452490.eDepartment of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Motta
- grid.452490.eDepartment of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy ,grid.417728.f0000 0004 1756 8807Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan Italy
| | - Maria De Santis
- grid.452490.eDepartment of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy ,grid.417728.f0000 0004 1756 8807Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan Italy
| | - Victor Savevski
- grid.417728.f0000 0004 1756 8807Artificial Intelligence Center, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Francone
- grid.417728.f0000 0004 1756 8807Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan Italy ,grid.452490.eDepartment of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
| | - Arturo Chiti
- grid.417728.f0000 0004 1756 8807Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan Italy ,grid.452490.eDepartment of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Carlo Selmi
- grid.452490.eDepartment of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy ,grid.417728.f0000 0004 1756 8807Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan Italy
| | - Lorenzo Monti
- grid.417728.f0000 0004 1756 8807Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, Milan Italy ,grid.452490.eDepartment of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
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Ippolito D, Vernuccio F, Maino C, Cannella R, Giandola T, Ragusi M, Bigiogera V, Capodaglio C, Sironi S. Multiorgan Involvement in SARS-CoV-2 Infection: The Role of the Radiologist from Head to Toe. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:1188. [PMID: 35626344 PMCID: PMC9140872 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12051188] [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: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Radiology plays a crucial role for the diagnosis and management of COVID-19 patients during the different stages of the disease, allowing for early detection of manifestations and complications of COVID-19 in the different organs. Lungs are the most common organs involved by SARS-CoV-2 and chest computed tomography (CT) represents a reliable imaging-based tool in acute, subacute, and chronic settings for diagnosis, prognosis, and management of lung disease and the evaluation of acute and chronic complications. Cardiac involvement can be evaluated by using cardiac computed tomography angiography (CCTA), considered as the best choice to solve the differential diagnosis between the most common cardiac conditions: acute coronary syndrome, myocarditis, and cardiac dysrhythmia. By using compressive ultrasound it's possible to study the peripheral arteries and veins and to exclude the deep vein thrombosis, directly linked to the onset of pulmonary embolism. Moreover, CT and especially MRI can help to evaluate the gastrointestinal involvement and assess hepatic function, pancreas involvement, and exclude causes of lymphocytopenia, thrombocytopenia, and leukopenia, typical of COVID-19 patients. Finally, radiology plays a crucial role in the early identification of renal damage in COVID-19 patients, by using both CT and US. This narrative review aims to provide a comprehensive radiological analysis of commonly involved organs in patients with COVID-19 disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Ippolito
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, San Gerardo Hospital, Via Pergolesi 33, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy; (D.I.); (C.M.); (T.G.); (M.R.); (V.B.); (C.C.)
- School of Medicine, University of Milano-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy;
| | - Federica Vernuccio
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital of Padova, Via Nicolò Giustiniani, 2, 35128 Padova, PD, Italy
| | - Cesare Maino
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, San Gerardo Hospital, Via Pergolesi 33, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy; (D.I.); (C.M.); (T.G.); (M.R.); (V.B.); (C.C.)
| | - Roberto Cannella
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics, University of Palermo, Via del Vespro, 129, 90127 Palermo, PA, Italy;
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Via del Vespro, 129, 90127 Palermo, PA, Italy
| | - Teresa Giandola
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, San Gerardo Hospital, Via Pergolesi 33, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy; (D.I.); (C.M.); (T.G.); (M.R.); (V.B.); (C.C.)
| | - Maria Ragusi
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, San Gerardo Hospital, Via Pergolesi 33, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy; (D.I.); (C.M.); (T.G.); (M.R.); (V.B.); (C.C.)
| | - Vittorio Bigiogera
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, San Gerardo Hospital, Via Pergolesi 33, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy; (D.I.); (C.M.); (T.G.); (M.R.); (V.B.); (C.C.)
- School of Medicine, University of Milano-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy;
| | - Carlo Capodaglio
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, San Gerardo Hospital, Via Pergolesi 33, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy; (D.I.); (C.M.); (T.G.); (M.R.); (V.B.); (C.C.)
- School of Medicine, University of Milano-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy;
| | - Sandro Sironi
- School of Medicine, University of Milano-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, 20900 Monza, MB, Italy;
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, H Papa Giovanni XXIII, Piazza OMS 1, 24127 Bergamo, BG, Italy
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Pence MC, Avdan Aslan A, Tunccan OG, Erbas G. Prognostic value of semi-quantitative CT-based score integrated with cardiovascular risk factors during the first peak of the COVID-19 pandemic: A new score to predict poor outcome. Eur J Radiol 2022; 150:110238. [PMID: 35278978 PMCID: PMC8900877 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2022.110238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Predicting the clinical course of COVID-19 pneumonia is of high clinical importance and may change treatment strategies. This study aimed to compare the semi-quantitative CT score (radiological score), mCHA2DS2-VASc score (clinical score), and R-mCHA2DS2-VASc score (clinical and radiological score) to predict the risk of ICU admission and mortality in COVID 19 pneumonia. Methods This study retrospectively evaluated 901 COVID-19 pneumonia cases with positive PCR results. The mCHA2DS2-VASc score was calculated based on clinical risk factors. CT images were evaluated, and the semi-quantitative CT scores were obtained. A new scoring method (R-mCHA2DS2-VASc score) was developed by combining these scores. The performance of the mCHA2DS2-VASc score, semi-quantitative CT score, and a combination of these scores (R-mCHA2DS2-VASc score) was evaluated using ROC analysis. Results The ROC curves of the semi-quantitative CT, mCHA2DS2-VASc, and R-mCHA2DS2-VASc scores were examined. The semi-quantitative CT, mCHA2DS2-VASc, and R-mCHA2DS2-VASc scores were significant in predicting intensive care unit (ICU) admission and mortality (p < 0.001). The R-mCHA2DS2-VASc score performed best in predicting a severe clinical course, and the cut-off value of 8 for the R-mCHA2DS2-VASc score had 83.9% sensitivity and 91.6% specificity for mortality. Conclusions The R-mCHA2DS2-VASc score includes both clinical and radiological parameters. It is a feasible scoring method for predicting a severe clinical course at an early stage with high sensitivity and specificity values. However, prospective studies with larger sample sizes are warranted.
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Abstract
Neurological manifestations, such as encephalitis, meningitis, ischemic, and hemorrhagic strokes, are reported with increasing frequency in patients affected by Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). In children, acute ischemic stroke is usually multifactorial: viral infection is an important precipitating factor for stroke. We present a case of a child with serological evidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection whose onset was a massive right cerebral artery ischemia that led to a malignant cerebral infarction. The patient underwent a life-saving decompressive hemicraniectomy, with good functional recovery, except for residual hemiplegia. During rehabilitation, the patient also developed a lower extremity peripheral nerve neuropathy, likely related to a long-Covid syndrome.
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Korompoki E, Gavriatopoulou M, Fotiou D, Ntanasis‐Stathopoulos I, Dimopoulos MA, Terpos E. Late-onset hematological complications post COVID-19: An emerging medical problem for the hematologist. Am J Hematol 2022; 97:119-128. [PMID: 34687462 PMCID: PMC8646944 DOI: 10.1002/ajh.26384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID‐19) is considered a multisystemic disease. Several studies have reported persistent symptoms or late‐onset complications after acute COVID‐19, including post‐COVID‐19 hematological disorders. COVID‐19‐induced coagulopathy, an immunothrombotic state, has been linked to thromboembolic and hemorrhagic events. Late‐onset thrombocytopenia related to immune system dysregulation has also been reported as a rare manifestation post COVID‐19. Close monitoring of laboratory dynamics is considered essential to identify timely abnormal values that need further investigation, providing supportive care whenever indicated. The role of hematologists is essential in terms of the multidisciplinary approach of long COVID‐19. This review summarizes all the available evidence on post‐acute COVID‐19 hematological complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni Korompoki
- Department of Clinical Therapeutics, School of Medicine National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Athens Greece
| | - Maria Gavriatopoulou
- Department of Clinical Therapeutics, School of Medicine National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Athens Greece
| | - Despina Fotiou
- Department of Clinical Therapeutics, School of Medicine National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Athens Greece
| | - Ioannis Ntanasis‐Stathopoulos
- Department of Clinical Therapeutics, School of Medicine National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Athens Greece
| | - Meletios A. Dimopoulos
- Department of Clinical Therapeutics, School of Medicine National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Athens Greece
| | - Evangelos Terpos
- Department of Clinical Therapeutics, School of Medicine National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Athens Greece
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Relationship of the pulmonary disease severity scoring with thromboembolic complications in COVID-19. Emerg Radiol 2021; 29:9-21. [PMID: 34802067 PMCID: PMC8605895 DOI: 10.1007/s10140-021-01998-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Purpose To correlate thromboembolic (TE) complications secondary to COVID-19 with the extent of the pulmonary parenchymal disease using CT severity scores and other comorbidities. Methods In total, 185 patients with COVID-19 and suspected thromboembolic complications were classified into two groups based on the presence or absence of thromboembolic complications. Thromboembolic complications were categorized based on location. Chest CT severity scoring system was used to assess the pulmonary parenchymal disease severity in all patients. Based into severity scores, patients were categorized into three groups (mild, moderate, and sever disease). Results The final study cohort consisted of 171 patients (99 male and 72 female) after excluding 14 patients with non-diagnostic CT pulmonary angiography. The TE group included 53 patients with a mean age of 55.1 ± 7.1, while the non-TE group included 118 patients with a mean age of 52.9 ± 10.8. Patients with BMI > 30 kg/m2 or having a history of smoking and HTN were found more frequently in the TE group (p < 0.05). Patients admitted to ICU were significantly higher in the TE group (p < 0.001). There was statistically significant difference (p = 0.002) in chest CT-SS between the TE group (22.8 ± 11.4) and non-TE group (17.6 ± 10.7). The percentage of severe parenchymal disease in the TE group was significantly higher compared to the non-TE group (p < 0.05). Severe parenchymal disease, BMI > 30 kg/m2, smoking, and HTN had a higher and more significant odds ratio for developing TE complications. Conclusion The present data suggest that severe pulmonary parenchymal disease secondary to COVID-19 is associated with a higher incidence of thromboembolic complications.
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Gusev E, Sarapultsev A, Hu D, Chereshnev V. Problems of Pathogenesis and Pathogenetic Therapy of COVID-19 from the Perspective of the General Theory of Pathological Systems (General Pathological Processes). Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:7582. [PMID: 34299201 PMCID: PMC8304657 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic examines not only the state of actual health care but also the state of fundamental medicine in various countries. Pro-inflammatory processes extend far beyond the classical concepts of inflammation. They manifest themselves in a variety of ways, beginning with extreme physiology, then allostasis at low-grade inflammation, and finally the shockogenic phenomenon of "inflammatory systemic microcirculation". The pathogenetic core of critical situations, including COVID-19, is this phenomenon. Microcirculatory abnormalities, on the other hand, lie at the heart of a specific type of general pathological process known as systemic inflammation (SI). Systemic inflammatory response, cytokine release, cytokine storm, and thrombo-inflammatory syndrome are all terms that refer to different aspects of SI. As a result, the metabolic syndrome model does not adequately reflect the pathophysiology of persistent low-grade systemic inflammation (ChSLGI). Diseases associated with ChSLGI, on the other hand, are risk factors for a severe COVID-19 course. The review examines the role of hypoxia, metabolic dysfunction, scavenger receptors, and pattern-recognition receptors, as well as the processes of the hemophagocytic syndrome, in the systemic alteration and development of SI in COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evgenii Gusev
- Institute of Immunology and Physiology, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Science, 620049 Ekaterinburg, Russia; (E.G.); (V.C.)
| | - Alexey Sarapultsev
- Institute of Immunology and Physiology, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Science, 620049 Ekaterinburg, Russia; (E.G.); (V.C.)
- School of Medical Biology, South Ural State University, 454080 Chelyabinsk, Russia
| | - Desheng Hu
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 200092, China;
| | - Valeriy Chereshnev
- Institute of Immunology and Physiology, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Science, 620049 Ekaterinburg, Russia; (E.G.); (V.C.)
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Sandor-Keri J, Benedek I, Polexa S, Benedek I. The Link between SARS-CoV-2 Infection, Inflammation and Hypercoagulability-Impact of Hemorheologic Alterations on Cardiovascular Mortality. J Clin Med 2021; 10:3015. [PMID: 34300181 PMCID: PMC8307227 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10143015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The link between severe forms of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and cardiovascular diseases has been well documented by various studies that indicated a higher risk of cardiovascular complications in COVID-19 patients, in parallel with a higher risk of mortality in COVID-19 patients with underlying cardiovascular diseases. It seems that inflammation, which is a major pathophysiological substrate for both acute myocardial infarction and severe forms of COVID-19, may play a pivotal role in the interrelation between these two critical conditions, and hypercoagulability associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection could be responsible for acute cardiovascular complications. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) proved to be independent predictors for prognosis in acute coronary syndromes and systemic inflammatory diseases; therefore, they may be used as independent prognostic markers of disease severity in COVID-19 infection. The aim of this review is to present the most recent advances in understanding the complex link between SARS-CoV-2 infection, inflammation and alteration of blood coagulability and hemorheology, leading to major cardiovascular events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Sandor-Keri
- Clinic of Cardiology, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science, and Technology, George Emil Palade of Targu Mures, 540139 Targu Mures, Romania; (S.P.); (I.B.)
| | - Istvan Benedek
- Clinic of Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation Unit, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science, and Technology, George Emil Palade of Targu Mures, 540139 Targu Mures, Romania;
| | - Stefania Polexa
- Clinic of Cardiology, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science, and Technology, George Emil Palade of Targu Mures, 540139 Targu Mures, Romania; (S.P.); (I.B.)
| | - Imre Benedek
- Clinic of Cardiology, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science, and Technology, George Emil Palade of Targu Mures, 540139 Targu Mures, Romania; (S.P.); (I.B.)
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El-Wahsh S, Dunkerton S, Ang T, Winters HS, Delcourt C. Current perspectives on neuroimaging techniques used to identify stroke mimics in clinical practice. Expert Rev Neurother 2021; 21:517-531. [PMID: 33787426 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2021.1911650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Urgent clinical assessment and brain imaging are essential for differentiating stroke mimics from stroke and to avoid unnecessary initiation of reperfusion and other therapies in stroke mimic patients. AREAS COVERED In this article, the authors will review acute stroke imaging and then the imaging patterns of the most common stroke mimics. The authors have focused our review on brain CT scan, and more specifically CT perfusion, as this is the most commonly available and emerging tool in emergency settings. The authors also provide information on acute brain MRI and MR perfusion. EXPERT OPINION Imaging can contribute to the detection and diagnosis of acute stroke mimics. Knowledge of imaging findings in different stroke mimics can help distinguish these from patients with stroke who require timely reperfusion therapy. CT and MRI perfusion and diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) MRI are useful imaging modalities for the assessment of acute stroke patients as they provide more accurate information than plain CT scan. Some of these modalities should be available in the emergency setting. The authors recommended CT perfusion as a useful tool for stroke management and differentiation with stroke mimics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shadi El-Wahsh
- Neurology Department, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, the University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,South Western Sydney Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Sophie Dunkerton
- Neurology Department, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, the University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Timothy Ang
- Neurology Department, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, the University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Hugh Stephen Winters
- Neurology Department, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, the University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Candice Delcourt
- The George Institute for Global Health, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, New South Wales, Australia
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Long-COVID and Post-COVID Health Complications: An Up-to-Date Review on Clinical Conditions and Their Possible Molecular Mechanisms. Viruses 2021; 13:v13040700. [PMID: 33919537 PMCID: PMC8072585 DOI: 10.3390/v13040700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 188] [Impact Index Per Article: 62.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has infected millions worldwide, leaving a global burden for long-term care of COVID-19 survivors. It is thus imperative to study post-COVID (i.e., short-term) and long-COVID (i.e., long-term) effects, specifically as local and systemic pathophysiological outcomes of other coronavirus-related diseases (such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS)) were well-cataloged. We conducted a comprehensive review of adverse post-COVID health outcomes and potential long-COVID effects. We observed that such adverse outcomes were not localized. Rather, they affected different human systems, including: (i) immune system (e.g., Guillain–Barré syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, pediatric inflammatory multisystem syndromes such as Kawasaki disease), (ii) hematological system (vascular hemostasis, blood coagulation), (iii) pulmonary system (respiratory failure, pulmonary thromboembolism, pulmonary embolism, pneumonia, pulmonary vascular damage, pulmonary fibrosis), (iv) cardiovascular system (myocardial hypertrophy, coronary artery atherosclerosis, focal myocardial fibrosis, acute myocardial infarction, cardiac hypertrophy), (v) gastrointestinal, hepatic, and renal systems (diarrhea, nausea/vomiting, abdominal pain, anorexia, acid reflux, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, lack of appetite/constipation), (vi) skeletomuscular system (immune-mediated skin diseases, psoriasis, lupus), (vii) nervous system (loss of taste/smell/hearing, headaches, spasms, convulsions, confusion, visual impairment, nerve pain, dizziness, impaired consciousness, nausea/vomiting, hemiplegia, ataxia, stroke, cerebral hemorrhage), (viii) mental health (stress, depression and anxiety). We additionally hypothesized mechanisms of action by investigating possible molecular mechanisms associated with these disease outcomes/symptoms. Overall, the COVID-19 pathology is still characterized by cytokine storm that results to endothelial inflammation, microvascular thrombosis, and multiple organ failures.
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Bowel necrosis associated with COVID-19 pneumonia: A report of two cases. Radiol Case Rep 2021; 16:819-823. [PMID: 33520046 PMCID: PMC7826008 DOI: 10.1016/j.radcr.2021.01.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
A novel coronavirus, called as SARS-CoV-2, caused multiple typical and atypical respiratory symptoms with several reported abdominal findings. We have described 2 cases of an unusual presentation of Covid-19. For patient 1, a woman aged 59-year-old had pneumonia and new onset abdominal pain. In patient 2, a 60-year-old man admitted with positive polymerase chain reaction test and abdominal pain from 2 weeks ago. Both lung and abdominal computed tomography (CT) were achieved in a few days. Acute ischemic mesenteritis and other abdominal complications were observed in the CT scan. Bowel necrosis in combination with peritonitis founded by laparotomy. Early diagnosis of abdominal complications in Covid-19 pneumonia can improve patient outcomes.
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Lopes N, Vernuccio F, Costantino C, Imburgia C, Gregoretti C, Salomone S, Drago F, Lo Bianco G. An Italian Guidance Model for the Management of Suspected or Confirmed COVID-19 Patients in the Primary Care Setting. Front Public Health 2020; 8:572042. [PMID: 33330317 PMCID: PMC7732472 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2020.572042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
An outbreak of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 started in China's Hubei province at the end of 2019 has rapidly become a pandemic. In Italy, a great number of patients was managed in primary care setting and the role of general practitioners and physicians working in the first-aid emergency medical service has become of utmost importance to coordinate the network between the territory and hospitals during the pandemic. Aim of this manuscript is to provide a guidance model for the management of suspected, probable, or confirmed cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection in the primary care setting, from diagnosis to treatment, applying also the recommendations of the Italian Society of General Medicine. Moreover, this multidisciplinary contribution would analyze and synthetize the preventive measures to limit the spread of SARS-CoV-2 infection in the general population as well as the perspective for vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noemi Lopes
- Provincial Health Authority of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Federica Vernuccio
- Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico - Scientific Institutes of Hospitalization and Care (IRCCS), Messina, Italy.,Department of Science for Health Promotion and Mother to Child Care, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy.,Section of Radiology - Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostics, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Claudio Costantino
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Maternal and Infant Care, Internal Medicine and Excellence Specialties "G. D'Alessandro", University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Claudia Imburgia
- Infectious Disease Unit, National Relevance Hospital Trust, Azienda Ospedaliera di Rilievo Nazionale e di Alta Specializzazione Civico Di Cristina e Benfratelli, Palermo, Italy
| | - Cesare Gregoretti
- Department of Surgical, Oncological, and Stomatological Sciences, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy.,Anesthesiology and Pain Department, Fondazione Istituto G. Giglio, Cefalù, Italy
| | - Salvatore Salomone
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Filippo Drago
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giuliano Lo Bianco
- Anesthesiology and Pain Department, Fondazione Istituto G. Giglio, Cefalù, Italy.,Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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14
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Felsenstein S, Willis E, Lythgoe H, McCann L, Cleary A, Mahmood K, Porter D, Jones J, McDonagh J, Chieng A, Varnier G, Hughes S, Boullier M, Ryan F, Awogbemi O, Soda G, Duong P, Pain C, Riley P, Hedrich CM. Presentation, Treatment Response and Short-Term Outcomes in Paediatric Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome Temporally Associated with SARS-CoV-2 (PIMS-TS). J Clin Med 2020; 9:E3293. [PMID: 33066459 PMCID: PMC7602286 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9103293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The novel Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the pathogen responsible for Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). Whilst most children and young people develop mild symptoms, recent reports suggest a novel paediatric inflammatory multisystem syndrome temporally associated with SARS-CoV-2 (PIMS-TS). Case definition and classification are preliminary, treatment is empiric and disease-associated outcomes are unclear. Here, we report 29 patients with PIMS-TS who were diagnosed, admitted and treated in the English North West between March and June 2020. Consistent with patterns observed internationally, cases peaked approximately 4 weeks after the initial surge of COVID-19-like symptoms in the UK population. Clinical symptoms included fever (100%), skin rashes (72%), cardiovascular involvement (86%), conjunctivitis (62%) and respiratory involvement (21%). Some patients had clinical features partially resembling Kawasaki disease (KD), toxic shock syndrome and cytokine storm syndrome. Male gender (69%), black, Asian and other minority ethnicities (BAME, 59%) were over-represented. Immune modulating treatment was used in all, including intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), corticosteroids and cytokine blockers. Notably, 32% of patients treated with IVIG alone went into remission. The rest required additional treatment, usually corticosteroids, with the exception of two patients who were treated with TNF inhibition and IL-1 blockade, respectively. Another patient received IL-1 inhibition as primary therapy, with associated rapid and sustained remission. Randomized and prospective studies are needed to investigate efficacy and safety of treatment, especially as resources of IVIG may be depleted secondary to high demand during future waves of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanna Felsenstein
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust Hospital, Liverpool L14 5AB, UK;
| | - Emily Willis
- Department of Rheumatology, Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, UK; (E.W.); (J.M.); (A.C.); (G.V.); (S.H.); (P.R.)
| | - Hannah Lythgoe
- Department of Rheumatology, Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust Hospital, Liverpool L14 5AB, UK; (H.L.); (L.M.); (A.C.); (K.M.); (C.P.)
| | - Liza McCann
- Department of Rheumatology, Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust Hospital, Liverpool L14 5AB, UK; (H.L.); (L.M.); (A.C.); (K.M.); (C.P.)
| | - Andrew Cleary
- Department of Rheumatology, Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust Hospital, Liverpool L14 5AB, UK; (H.L.); (L.M.); (A.C.); (K.M.); (C.P.)
| | - Kamran Mahmood
- Department of Rheumatology, Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust Hospital, Liverpool L14 5AB, UK; (H.L.); (L.M.); (A.C.); (K.M.); (C.P.)
| | - David Porter
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust Hospital, Liverpool L14 5AB, UK;
| | - Jessica Jones
- Department of Microbiology, Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust Hospital, Liverpool L14 5AB, UK;
| | - Janet McDonagh
- Department of Rheumatology, Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, UK; (E.W.); (J.M.); (A.C.); (G.V.); (S.H.); (P.R.)
| | - Alice Chieng
- Department of Rheumatology, Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, UK; (E.W.); (J.M.); (A.C.); (G.V.); (S.H.); (P.R.)
| | - Giulia Varnier
- Department of Rheumatology, Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, UK; (E.W.); (J.M.); (A.C.); (G.V.); (S.H.); (P.R.)
| | - Stephen Hughes
- Department of Rheumatology, Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, UK; (E.W.); (J.M.); (A.C.); (G.V.); (S.H.); (P.R.)
| | - Mary Boullier
- Department of General Paediatrics, Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust Hospital, Liverpool L14 5AB, UK; (M.B.); (F.R.); (O.A.)
| | - Fiona Ryan
- Department of General Paediatrics, Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust Hospital, Liverpool L14 5AB, UK; (M.B.); (F.R.); (O.A.)
| | - Olumoyin Awogbemi
- Department of General Paediatrics, Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust Hospital, Liverpool L14 5AB, UK; (M.B.); (F.R.); (O.A.)
| | - Giridhar Soda
- Department of Cardiology, Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, UK;
| | - Phuoc Duong
- Department of Cardiology, Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust Hospital, Liverpool L14 5AB, UK;
| | - Clare Pain
- Department of Rheumatology, Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust Hospital, Liverpool L14 5AB, UK; (H.L.); (L.M.); (A.C.); (K.M.); (C.P.)
| | - Phil Riley
- Department of Rheumatology, Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, UK; (E.W.); (J.M.); (A.C.); (G.V.); (S.H.); (P.R.)
| | - Christian M. Hedrich
- Department of Rheumatology, Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust Hospital, Liverpool L14 5AB, UK; (H.L.); (L.M.); (A.C.); (K.M.); (C.P.)
- Department of Women’s & Children’s Health, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3BX, UK
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