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Tazarghi A, Bazoq S, Taziki Balajelini MH, Ebrahimi M, Hosseini SM, Razavi Nikoo H. Liver injury in COVID-19: an insight into pathobiology and roles of risk factors. Virol J 2024; 21:65. [PMID: 38491495 PMCID: PMC10943793 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-024-02332-y] [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: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 is a complex disease that can lead to fatal respiratory failure with extrapulmonary complications, either as a direct result of viral invasion in multiple organs or secondary to oxygen supply shortage. Liver is susceptible to many viral pathogens, and due to its versatile functions in the body, it is of great interest to determine how hepatocytes may interact with SARS-CoV-2 in COVID-19 patients. Liver injury is a major cause of death, and SARS-CoV-2 is suspected to contribute significantly to hepatopathy. Owing to the lack of knowledge in this field, further research is required to address these ambiguities. Therefore, we aimed to provide a comprehensive insight into host-virus interactions, underlying mechanisms, and associated risk factors by collecting results from epidemiological analyses and relevant laboratory experiments. Backed by an avalanche of recent studies, our findings support that liver injury is a sequela of severe COVID-19, and certain pre-existing liver conditions can also intensify the morbidity of SARS-CoV-2 infection in synergy. Notably, age, sex, lifestyle, dietary habits, coinfection, and particular drug regimens play a decisive role in the final outcome and prognosis as well. Taken together, our goal was to unravel these complexities concerning the development of novel diagnostic, prophylactic, and therapeutic approaches with a focus on prioritizing high-risk groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbas Tazarghi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Sahar Bazoq
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hosein Taziki Balajelini
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Neuroscience Research Center, School of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Mohsen Ebrahimi
- Neonatal and Children's Health Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Seyed Mehran Hosseini
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Neuroscience Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran.
| | - Hadi Razavi Nikoo
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran.
- Infectious Diseases Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran.
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Lempesis IG, Georgakopoulou VE, Reiter RJ, Spandidos DA. A mid‑pandemic night's dream: Melatonin, from harbinger of anti‑inflammation to mitochondrial savior in acute and long COVID‑19 (Review). Int J Mol Med 2024; 53:28. [PMID: 38299237 PMCID: PMC10852014 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2024.5352] [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: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‑19), a systemic illness caused by severe acute respiratory distress syndrome 2 (SARS‑CoV‑2), has triggered a worldwide pandemic with symptoms ranging from asymptomatic to chronic, affecting practically every organ. Melatonin, an ancient antioxidant found in all living organisms, has been suggested as a safe and effective therapeutic option for the treatment of SARS‑CoV‑2 infection due to its good safety characteristics and broad‑spectrum antiviral medication properties. Melatonin is essential in various metabolic pathways and governs physiological processes, such as the sleep‑wake cycle and circadian rhythms. It exhibits oncostatic, anti‑inflammatory, antioxidant and anti‑aging properties, exhibiting promise for use in the treatment of numerous disorders, including COVID‑19. The preventive and therapeutic effects of melatonin have been widely explored in a number of conditions and have been well‑established in experimental ischemia/reperfusion investigations, particularly in coronary heart disease and stroke. Clinical research evaluating the use of melatonin in COVID‑19 has shown various improved outcomes, including reduced hospitalization durations; however, the trials are small. Melatonin can alleviate mitochondrial dysfunction in COVID‑19, improve immune cell function and provide antioxidant properties. However, its therapeutic potential remains underexplored due to funding limitations and thus further investigations are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis G. Lempesis
- Department of Pathophysiology, Laiko General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Epameinondas Georgakopoulou
- Department of Pathophysiology, Laiko General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
- Department of Infectious Diseases-COVID-19 Unit, Laiko General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Russel J. Reiter
- Department of Cellular and Structural Biology, UT Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Demetrios A. Spandidos
- Laboratory of Clinical Virology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
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Bota AV, Bratosin F, Bandi SSS, Bogdan I, Razvan DV, Toma AO, Indries MF, Csep AN, Cotoraci C, Prodan M, Marc F, Ignuta F, Marincu I. A Comparative Analysis of Liver Injury Markers in Post-COVID Syndrome among Elderly Patients: A Prospective Study. J Clin Med 2024; 13:1149. [PMID: 38398462 PMCID: PMC10889217 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13041149] [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: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the wake of the global COVID-19 pandemic, understanding its prolonged impact on vulnerable populations has become a critical area of investigation. This study aimed to elucidate the distinctive post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC) and liver injury in Romania's elderly population, hypothesizing unique demographic, clinical, and healthcare factors influencing the manifestation. METHODS A longitudinal design was employed, enrolling COVID-19 patients from the Victor Babes Hospital for Infectious Diseases and Pulmonology in Timisoara, Romania. Participants were stratified into three groups based on age and Long COVID status. The study focused on a variety of demographic, clinical, and biological parameters, including liver function tests, to assess the trajectory and severity of liver injury over six months post discharge. RESULTS Involving 238 participants, the study revealed a significant increase in the duration of hospitalization for those over 65 (15.8 ± 8.2 days) compared to younger groups (p < 0.001). Notably, elderly Long COVID patients exhibited a marked elevation in liver enzymes post discharge, with median ΔALT and ΔAST of 24.1 U/L and 30.2 U/L, respectively, suggesting ongoing liver injury (p < 0.001). Significant metabolic disruptions were observed, with the ΔFasting glucose showing a substantial median decrease of 21.1 mmol/L in the elderly group (p < 0.001). A pronounced reduction in ΔGGT (16.7 U/L) and ΔLDH (48.7 U/L) was noted, indicating a recovery in liver function and reduced tissue damage (p < 0.001). Coagulation profiles and liver fibrosis risk scores, particularly ΔFIB-4 and ΔAPRI, also significantly improved post discharge, indicating a reduced risk of ongoing liver complications. CONCLUSION This study confirms the hypothesis of more severe PASC and liver injury among the elderly Romanian population. Significant improvements post discharge suggest a degree of recovery, yet the persistent alterations in liver enzymes, glucose metabolism, and fibrosis risk scores call for continued monitoring and tailored management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Vasile Bota
- Methodological and Infectious Diseases Research Center, Department of Infectious Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (A.V.B.); (F.B.); (I.B.); (D.V.R.); (F.I.); (I.M.)
- Doctoral School, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- Department of Hematology, Faculty of Medicine, “Vasile Goldis” Western University, Bulevardul Revolutiei 94, 310025 Arad, Romania;
| | - Felix Bratosin
- Methodological and Infectious Diseases Research Center, Department of Infectious Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (A.V.B.); (F.B.); (I.B.); (D.V.R.); (F.I.); (I.M.)
- Doctoral School, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- Discipline of Infectious Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Satya Sai Sri Bandi
- Malla Reddy Institute of Medical Sciences, Suraram Main Road 138, Hyderabad 500055, India;
| | - Iulia Bogdan
- Methodological and Infectious Diseases Research Center, Department of Infectious Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (A.V.B.); (F.B.); (I.B.); (D.V.R.); (F.I.); (I.M.)
- Doctoral School, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- Discipline of Infectious Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - David Vladut Razvan
- Methodological and Infectious Diseases Research Center, Department of Infectious Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (A.V.B.); (F.B.); (I.B.); (D.V.R.); (F.I.); (I.M.)
- Doctoral School, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Ana-Olivia Toma
- Discipline of Dermatology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Mirela Florica Indries
- Department of Psycho-Neuroscience and Recovery, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, Strada Universitatii 1, 410087 Oradea, Romania;
| | - Andrei Nicolae Csep
- Department of Psycho-Neuroscience and Recovery, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, Strada Universitatii 1, 410087 Oradea, Romania;
| | - Coralia Cotoraci
- Department of Hematology, Faculty of Medicine, “Vasile Goldis” Western University, Bulevardul Revolutiei 94, 310025 Arad, Romania;
| | - Mihaela Prodan
- Doctoral School, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- Department of Plastic Surgery, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Felicia Marc
- Department of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410073 Oradea, Romania
| | - Flavia Ignuta
- Methodological and Infectious Diseases Research Center, Department of Infectious Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (A.V.B.); (F.B.); (I.B.); (D.V.R.); (F.I.); (I.M.)
- Doctoral School, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Iosif Marincu
- Methodological and Infectious Diseases Research Center, Department of Infectious Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (A.V.B.); (F.B.); (I.B.); (D.V.R.); (F.I.); (I.M.)
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Michalak A, Lach T, Szczygieł K, Cichoż-Lach H. COVID-19, Possible Hepatic Pathways and Alcohol Abuse-What Do We Know up to 2023? Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2212. [PMID: 38396888 PMCID: PMC10888568 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042212] [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: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The pandemic period due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) revolutionized all possible areas of global health. Significant consequences were also related to diverse extrapulmonary manifestations of this pathology. The liver was found to be a relatively common organ, beyond the respiratory tract, affected by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). Multiple studies revealed the essential role of chronic liver disease (CLD) in the general outcome of coronavirus infection. Present concerns in this field are related to the direct hepatic consequences caused by COVID-19 and pre-existing liver disorders as risk factors for the severe course of the infection. Which mechanism has a key role in this phenomenon-previously existing hepatic disorder or acute liver failure due to SARS-CoV-2-is still not fully clarified. Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) constitutes another not fully elucidated context of coronavirus infection. Should the toxic effects of ethanol or already developed liver cirrhosis and its consequences be perceived as a causative or triggering factor of hepatic impairment in COVID-19 patients? In the face of these discrepancies, we decided to summarize the role of the liver in the whole picture of coronavirus infection, paying special attention to ALD and focusing on the pathological pathways related to COVID-19, ethanol toxicity and liver cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agata Michalak
- Department of Gastroenterology with Endoscopy Unit, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 8, 20-954 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Tomasz Lach
- Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 8, 20-954 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Karolina Szczygieł
- Clinical Dietetics Unit, Department of Bioanalytics, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 7, 20-093 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Halina Cichoż-Lach
- Department of Gastroenterology with Endoscopy Unit, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 8, 20-954 Lublin, Poland;
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Gravina AG, Pellegrino R, Durante T, Palladino G, D'Onofrio R, Mammone S, Arboretto G, Auletta S, Imperio G, Ventura A, Romeo M, Federico A. Telemedicine in inflammatory bowel diseases: A new brick in the medicine of the future? World J Methodol 2023; 13:194-209. [PMID: 37771865 PMCID: PMC10523254 DOI: 10.5662/wjm.v13.i4.194] [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: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic digestive disease that requires continuous monitoring by healthcare professionals to determine the appropriate therapy and monitor short-term and long-term complications. The progressive development of information technology has enabled healthcare personnel to deliver care services to patients remotely. Therefore, various applications of telemedicine in IBD management have evolved, including telemonitoring, teleconsulting, teleducation, telenursing, telenutrition, and telepathology. While evidence has been provided for some telemedicine applications, targeted studies are still required. This review summarises the major studies that have evaluated telemedicine and its application in the management of IBD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Raffaele Pellegrino
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Tommaso Durante
- Mental Health Department, “S. Pio” Hospital, Benevento 82100, Italy
| | - Giovanna Palladino
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Rossella D'Onofrio
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Simone Mammone
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Giusi Arboretto
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Salvatore Auletta
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Imperio
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Andrea Ventura
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Mario Romeo
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Alessandro Federico
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples 80138, Italy
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Hensen T, Fässler D, O’Mahony L, Albrich WC, Barda B, Garzoni C, Kleger GR, Pietsch U, Suh N, Hertel J, Thiele I. The Effects of Hospitalisation on the Serum Metabolome in COVID-19 Patients. Metabolites 2023; 13:951. [PMID: 37623894 PMCID: PMC10456321 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13080951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19, a systemic multi-organ disease resulting from infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is known to result in a wide array of disease outcomes, ranging from asymptomatic to fatal. Despite persistent progress, there is a continued need for more accurate determinants of disease outcomes, including post-acute symptoms after COVID-19. In this study, we characterised the serum metabolomic changes due to hospitalisation and COVID-19 disease progression by mapping the serum metabolomic trajectories of 71 newly hospitalised moderate and severe patients in their first week after hospitalisation. These 71 patients were spread out over three hospitals in Switzerland, enabling us to meta-analyse the metabolomic trajectories and filter consistently changing metabolites. Additionally, we investigated differential metabolite-metabolite trajectories between fatal, severe, and moderate disease outcomes to find prognostic markers of disease severity. We found drastic changes in serum metabolite concentrations for 448 out of the 901 metabolites. These results included markers of hospitalisation, such as environmental exposures, dietary changes, and altered drug administration, but also possible markers of physiological functioning, including carboxyethyl-GABA and fibrinopeptides, which might be prognostic for worsening lung injury. Possible markers of disease progression included altered urea cycle metabolites and metabolites of the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, indicating a SARS-CoV-2-induced reprogramming of the host metabolism. Glycerophosphorylcholine was identified as a potential marker of disease severity. Taken together, this study describes the metabolome-wide changes due to hospitalisation and COVID-19 disease progression. Moreover, we propose a wide range of novel potential biomarkers for monitoring COVID-19 disease course, both dependent and independent of the severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Hensen
- School of Medicine, University of Galway, H91 TK33 Galway, Ireland;
- School of Microbiology, University of Galway, H91 TK33 Galway, Ireland
- Ryan Institute, University of Galway, H91 TK33 Galway, Ireland
- APC Microbiome Ireland, T12 K8AF Cork, Ireland; (L.O.); (W.C.A.)
| | - Daniel Fässler
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medicine Greifswald, 17475 Greifswald, Germany;
| | - Liam O’Mahony
- APC Microbiome Ireland, T12 K8AF Cork, Ireland; (L.O.); (W.C.A.)
- Department of Medicine and School of Microbiology, University College Cork, T12 K8AF Cork, Ireland
| | - Werner C. Albrich
- APC Microbiome Ireland, T12 K8AF Cork, Ireland; (L.O.); (W.C.A.)
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, 9007 St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Beatrice Barda
- Fondazione Epatocentro Ticino, Via Soldino 5, 6900 Lugano, Switzerland; (B.B.); (C.G.)
| | - Christian Garzoni
- Fondazione Epatocentro Ticino, Via Soldino 5, 6900 Lugano, Switzerland; (B.B.); (C.G.)
- Clinic of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Clinica Luganese Moncucco, 6900 Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Gian-Reto Kleger
- Division of Intensive Care, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, Rorschacherstrasse 95, 9007 St. Gallen, Switzerland;
| | - Urs Pietsch
- Department of Anesthesia, Intensive Care, Emergency and Pain Medicine, Cantonal Hospital St. Gallen, Rorschacherstrasse 95, 9007 St. Gallen, Switzerland;
| | - Noémie Suh
- Division of Intensive Care, Geneva University Hospitals, The Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland;
| | - Johannes Hertel
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medicine Greifswald, 17475 Greifswald, Germany;
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Greifswald, University Medicine Greifswald, 17475 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Ines Thiele
- School of Medicine, University of Galway, H91 TK33 Galway, Ireland;
- School of Microbiology, University of Galway, H91 TK33 Galway, Ireland
- Ryan Institute, University of Galway, H91 TK33 Galway, Ireland
- APC Microbiome Ireland, T12 K8AF Cork, Ireland; (L.O.); (W.C.A.)
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7
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Lempesis IG, Georgakopoulou VE. Implications of obesity and adiposopathy on respiratory infections; focus on emerging challenges. World J Clin Cases 2023; 11:2925-2933. [PMID: 37215426 PMCID: PMC10198078 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v11.i13.2925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Obesity is characterized by excessive adipose tissue accumulation, which impacts physiological, metabolic, and immune functions. Several respiratory infections, including bacterial pneumonia, influenza, and coronavirus disease 2019, appear to be linked to unfavorable results in individuals with obesity. These may be attributed to the direct mechanical/physiological effects of excess body fat on the lungs’ function. Notably, adipose tissue dysfunction is associated with a low-grade chronic inflammatory status and hyperleptinemia, among other characteristics. These have all been linked to immune system dysfunction and weakened immune responses to these infections. A better understanding and clinical awareness of these risk factors are necessary for better disease outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis G Lempesis
- Department of Infectious Diseases-COVID-19 Unit, Laiko General Hospital, Athens 11527, Greece
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8
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Khullar N, Bhatti JS, Singh S, Thukral B, Reddy PH, Bhatti GK. Insight into the liver dysfunction in COVID-19 patients: Molecular mechanisms and possible therapeutic strategies. World J Gastroenterol 2023; 29:2064-2077. [PMID: 37122601 PMCID: PMC10130970 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v29.i14.2064] [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: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023] Open
Abstract
As of June 2022, more than 530 million people worldwide have become ill with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Although COVID-19 is most commonly associated with respiratory distress (severe acute respiratory syndrome), meta-analysis have indicated that liver dysfunction also occurs in patients with severe symptoms. Current studies revealed distinctive patterning in the receptors on the hepatic cells that helps in viral invasion through the expression of angiotensin-converting enzyme receptors. It has also been reported that in some patients with COVID-19, therapeutic strategies, including repurposed drugs (mitifovir, lopinavir/ritonavir, tocilizumab, etc.) triggered liver injury and cholestatic toxicity. Several proven indicators support cytokine storm-induced hepatic damage. Because there are 1.5 billion patients with chronic liver disease worldwide, it becomes imperative to critically evaluate the molecular mechanisms concerning hepatotropism of COVID-19 and identify new potential therapeutics. This review also designated a comprehensive outlook of comorbidities and the impact of lifestyle and genetics in managing patients with COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naina Khullar
- Department of Zoology, Mata Gujri College, Fatehgarh Sahib 140407, Punjab, India
| | - Jasvinder Singh Bhatti
- Laboratory of Translational Medicine and Nanotherapeutics, Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda 151401, Punjab, India
| | - Satwinder Singh
- Department of Computer Science and Technology, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda 151401, Punjab, India
| | - Bhawana Thukral
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, University Institute of Applied Health Sciences, Chandigarh University, Mohali 140413, Punjab, India
| | - P Hemachandra Reddy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, United States
| | - Gurjit Kaur Bhatti
- Department of Medical Lab Technology, University Institute of Applied Health Sciences, Chandigarh University, Mohali 140413, Punjab, India
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Sadeghi Dousari A, Hosseininasab SS, Sadeghi Dousari F, Fuladvandi M, Satarzadeh N. The impact of COVID-19 on liver injury in various age. World J Virol 2023; 12:91-99. [PMID: 37033149 PMCID: PMC10075051 DOI: 10.5501/wjv.v12.i2.91] [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: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) disease was first detected in December 2019 in Wuhan, China. This disease is currently one of the most important global health problems. The novel coronavirus COVID-19 is a respiratory illness, that has caused a deadly pandemic that is spreading rapidly around the world. It is not only a respiratory system virus that causes severe lung disease, but also a systemic disease agent that can affect all systems. People with COVID-19 disease usually have respiratory signs, however, the liver disorder is not an uncommon presentation. In addition, many studies around the world have revealed that the liver is injured to various degrees in patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 disease. This review mainly focuses on the impact of COVID-19 on Liver Injury at various ages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amin Sadeghi Dousari
- Department of Microbiology, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft 7861634204, Iran
| | | | | | - Masoumeh Fuladvandi
- Department of Nursing, Aligoudarz School of Nursing, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad 6813833946, Iran
| | - Naghmeh Satarzadeh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman 7616913555, Iran
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Lempesis IG, Karlafti E, Papalexis P, Fotakopoulos G, Tarantinos K, Lekakis V, Papadakos SP, Cholongitas E, Georgakopoulou VE. COVID-19 and liver injury in individuals with obesity. World J Gastroenterol 2023; 29:908-916. [PMID: 36844135 PMCID: PMC9950870 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v29.i6.908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 is an infectious disease caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 that manifests as a variety of clinical manifestations, including liver damage commonly detected by a hepatocellular pattern from liver function tests. Liver injury is associated with a worse prognosis overall. Conditions associated with the severity of the disease include obesity and cardiometabolic comorbidities, which are also associated with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The presence of NAFLD, similarly to obesity, is associated with an unfavourable impact on the coronavirus disease 2019 outcome. Individuals with these conditions could present with liver damage and elevated liver function tests due to direct viral cytotoxicity, systemic inflammation, ischemic or hypoxic liver damage or drug side effects. However, liver damage in the setting of NAFLD could also be attributed to a pre-existing chronic low-grade inflammation associated with surplus and dysfunctional adipose tissue in these individuals. Here we investigate the hypothesis that a pre-existing inflammatory status is exacerbated after severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection, which embodies a second hit to the underestimated liver damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis G Lempesis
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, United Kingdom
- Department of Human Biology, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht 616 6200, Netherlands
| | - Eleni Karlafti
- Department of Emergency, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki 546 21, Greece
| | - Petros Papalexis
- Unit of Endocrinology, First Department of Internal Medicine, Laiko General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens 11527, Greece
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of West Attica, Athens 12243, Greece
| | - George Fotakopoulos
- Department of Neurosurgery, General University Hospital of Larisa, Larisa 41221, Greece
| | | | - Vasileios Lekakis
- Department of Gastroenterology, Laiko General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens 11527, Greece
| | - Stavros P Papadakos
- Department of Gastroenterology, Laiko General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens 11527, Greece
| | - Evangelos Cholongitas
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Laiko General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens 11527, Greece
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11
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Vujčić I. Outcomes of COVID-19 among patients with liver disease. World J Gastroenterol 2023; 29:815-824. [PMID: 36816621 PMCID: PMC9932431 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v29.i5.815] [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: 09/17/2022] [Revised: 12/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is primarily a respiratory disease with multi-organ involvement, including impaired liver function. It has been noticed that a significant proportion of COVID-19 patients have liver dysfunction, especially those with a more severe disease course. The coronavirus causes direct damage to the liver using the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2, a cell-surface receptor for cellular entry, that is expressed in the liver. According to previous research, liver enzyme abnormalities were observed in a considerable proportion of COVID-19 patients, and elevated liver transaminases were found in about 20% of these patients, alkaline phosphatase in 6.1%, and gamma-glutamyl transferase in 21.1%. COVID-19 might trigger a deterioration of liver function in patients with pre-existing chronic liver diseases (CLDs) and also in those without previous liver disorders. The majority of COVID-19 patients who develop liver injury are men, the elderly, and those with a higher body mass index. Compared to the general population, COVID-19 is associated with significant morbidity and mortality in patients with liver disease (cirrhosis and liver transplantation recipients). However, some studies indicate that CLDs have a lesser role in determining patient progression towards higher disease severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isidora Vujčić
- Institute of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade 11000, Belgrade, Serbia
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12
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Valsamaki A, Xanthoudaki M, Oikonomou KG, Vlachostergios PJ, Papadogoulas A, Katsiafylloudis P, Voulgaridi I, Skoura AL, Komnos A, Papamichalis P. Prevention, diagnostic evaluation, management and prognostic implications of liver disease in critically ill patients with COVID-19. World J Clin Cases 2023; 11:514-527. [PMID: 36793637 PMCID: PMC9923862 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v11.i3.514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, broke out in December 2019 in Wuhan city of China and spread rapidly worldwide. Therefore, by March 2020, the World Health Organization declared the disease a global pandemic. Apart from the respiratory system, various other organs of the human body are also seriously affected by the virus. Liver injury in patients with a severe form of COVID-19 is estimated to be 14.8%-53.0%. Elevated levels of total bilirubin, aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase and low levels of serum albumin and prealbumin are the main laboratory findings. Patients with pre-existing chronic liver disease and cirrhosis are much more prone to develop severe liver injury. This literature review presented the recent scientific findings regarding the pathophysiological mechanisms responsible for liver injury in critically ill patients with COVID-19, the various interactions between drugs used to treat the disease and the function of the liver and the specific tests providing the possibility of early diagnosis of severe liver injury in these patients. Moreover, it highlighted the burden that COVID-19 put on health systems worldwide and its effect on transplant programs and the care provided to critically ill patients in general and particularly to those with chronic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asimina Valsamaki
- Intensive Care Unit, General Hospital of Larissa, Larissa 41221, Greece
| | - Maria Xanthoudaki
- Intensive Care Unit, General Hospital of Larissa, Larissa 41221, Greece
| | | | - Panagiotis J Vlachostergios
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, United States
| | | | | | - Ioanna Voulgaridi
- Department of Microbiology, General Hospital of Larissa, Larissa 41221, Greece
| | | | - Apostolos Komnos
- Intensive Care Unit, General Hospital of Larissa, Larissa 41221, Greece
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13
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Dhakal S, Charoen P, Pan-ngum W, Luvira V, Sivakorn C, Hanboonkunupakarn B, Chirapongsathorn S, Poovorawan K. Severity of COVID-19 in Patients with Diarrhoea: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:tropicalmed8020084. [PMID: 36828500 PMCID: PMC9966065 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8020084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 patients occasionally present with diarrhoea. Our objective was to estimate the risk of developing the severe disease in COVID-19 patients with and without diarrhoea and to provide a more precise estimate of the prevalence of COVID-19-associated digestive symptoms. A total of 88 studies (n = 67,794) on patients with a COVID-19 infection published between 1 January 2020 and 20 October 2022 were included in this meta-analysis. The overall prevalence of digestive symptoms was 27% (95% confidence interval (CI): 21-34%; I2 = 99%). According to our data, the pooled prevalence of diarrhoea symptoms in the 88 studies analysed was 17% (95% CI: 14-20%; I2 = 98%). The pooled estimate of nausea or vomiting in a total of 60 studies was 12% (95% CI: 8-15%; I2 = 98%). We also analysed 23 studies with eligible individuals (n = 3800) to assess the association between the disease severity and diarrhoea. Individuals who had diarrhoea were more likely to have experienced severe COVID-19 (odds ratio: 1.71; 95% CI: 1.31-2.24; p < 0.0001; I2 = 10%). Gastrointestinal symptoms and diarrhoea are frequently presenting COVID-19 manifestations that physicians should be aware of.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunita Dhakal
- Department of Clinical Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Pimphen Charoen
- Department of Tropical Hygiene, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Wirichada Pan-ngum
- Department of Tropical Hygiene, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Viravarn Luvira
- Department of Clinical Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Chaisith Sivakorn
- Department of Clinical Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Borimas Hanboonkunupakarn
- Department of Clinical Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Sakkarin Chirapongsathorn
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Phramongkutklao Hospital, College of Medicine, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Kittiyod Poovorawan
- Department of Clinical Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +662-354-9100; Fax: +662-354-9168
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14
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Tovani-Palone MR, Pedersini P. Potential role of the microbiome in liver injury during COVID-19: Further research is needed. World J Gastroenterol 2023; 29:503-507. [PMID: 36688015 PMCID: PMC9850931 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v29.i3.503] [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: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Although different studies have associated coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) with the occurrence of liver injury, the hepatic injury route during the COVID-19 course is not yet fully understood. In order to better understand the mechanisms of the disease, the human gut microbiota has been the subject of extensive discussion in the context of COVID-19 pathophysiology. However, many questions remain, including the risks of liver injury due to COVID-19 specific populations. Further research in this field could allow the discovery of new personalized treatment strategies aimed at improving the microbiota composition, thereby reducing COVID-19 severity and its complications in different populations. In this article, we discussed basic mechanisms of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection and recent evidence on the relationship between COVID-19, the gut microbiome and liver injury as well as proposed recommendations for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Roberto Tovani-Palone
- Department of Research Analytics, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Chennai 600077, India
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15
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Papagiouvanni I, Kotoulas SC, Pataka A, Spyratos DG, Porpodis K, Boutou AK, Papagiouvannis G, Grigoriou I, Vettas C, Goulis I. COVID-19 and liver injury: An ongoing challenge. World J Gastroenterol 2023; 29:257-271. [PMID: 36687117 PMCID: PMC9846934 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v29.i2.257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The new coronavirus severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was identified in December 2019, in Wuhan, China. The virus was rapidly spread worldwide, causing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Although COVID-19 is presented, usually, with typical respiratory symptoms (i.e., dyspnea, cough) and fever, extrapulmonary manifestations are also encountered. Liver injury is a common feature in patients with COVID-19 and ranges from mild and temporary elevation of liver enzymes to severe liver injury and, even, acute liver failure. The pathogenesis of liver damage is not clearly defined; multiple mechanisms contribute to liver disorder, including direct cytopathic viral effect, cytokine storm and immune-mediated hepatitis, hypoxic injury, and drug-induced liver toxicity. Patients with underlying chronic liver disease (i.e., cirrhosis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, alcohol-related liver disease, hepatocellular carcinoma, etc.) may have greater risk to develop both severe COVID-19 and further liver deterioration, and, as a consequence, certain issues should be considered during disease management. The aim of this review is to present the prevalence, clinical manifestation and pathophysiological mechanisms of liver injury in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Moreover, we overview the association between chronic liver disease and SARS-CoV-2 infection and we briefly discuss the management of liver injury during COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioanna Papagiouvanni
- Fourth Department of Internal Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki 54642, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Athanasia Pataka
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, G Papanikolaou Hospital, Resp Failure Unit, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki 57001, Greece
| | - Dionisios G Spyratos
- Pulmonary Department, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki 57001, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Porpodis
- Pulmonary Department, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki 57001, Greece
| | - Afroditi K Boutou
- Pulmonary Department, G Papanikolaou Hospital, Resp Failure Unit, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki 54642, Greece
| | - Georgios Papagiouvannis
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, Frederick University, Nicosia 1036, Cyprus
| | - Ioanna Grigoriou
- Respiratory Failure Clinic, Papanikolaou General Hospital, Thessloniki 57001, Greece
| | - Christos Vettas
- Fourth Department of Internal Medicine, Hippokration General Hospital, Thessaloniki 54642, Greece
| | - Ioannis Goulis
- Fourth Department of Internal Medicine, Hippokration General Hospital, Thessaloniki 54642, Greece
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16
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Saha L, Vij S, Rawat K. Liver injury induced by COVID 19 treatment - what do we know? World J Gastroenterol 2022; 28:6314-6327. [PMID: 36533104 PMCID: PMC9753058 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v28.i45.6314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) may be correlated with the risk of liver injury development. An increasing number of studies indicate that degrees of hepatotoxicity have been associated with using some medications in the management of COVID-19 patients. However, limited studies have systematically investigated the evidence of drug-induced liver injury (DILI) in COVID-19 patients. An increasing number of studies indicate that degrees of hepatotoxicity have been associated with using some of these medications in the management of COVID-19 patients. Significantly, it was relieved after the cessation of these agents. However, to our knowledge, no studies have systematically investigated the evidence of DILI in COVID-19 patients. In this review, we discussed the association between hepatotoxicity in COVID-19 patients and the drugs used in these patients and possible mechanisms of hepatotoxicity. The currently available evidence on the association of different therapeutic agents with hepatotoxicity in COVID-19 patient was systematically reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lekha Saha
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Soumya Vij
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Kajal Rawat
- Department of Pharmacology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India
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17
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Maev IV, Andreev DN, Sokolov PS, Fomenko AК, Devkota MK, Andreev NG, Zaborovsky AV. Efficacy of <i>Saccharomyces boulardii</i> CNCM I-745 probiotic drug in the prevention and treatment of diarrhea in hospitalized patients with new coronavirus infection COVID-19. TERAPEVT ARKH 2022; 94:1163-1170. [DOI: 10.26442/00403660.2022.10.201881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Aim. To evaluate the efficacy of Saccharomyces boulardii (S. boulardii) CNCM I-745 probiotic drug in preventing and treating diarrhea in hospitalized patients with COVID-19.
Materials and methods. A prospective comparative study was conducted in two parallel groups. The study included males and females aged 18 to 60 with the following diagnosis confirmed by polymerase chain reaction: U07.2 Coronavirus infection COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2 virus (grade 13 pneumonia according to CT scan). All patients received antibiotic therapy. The patients were subdivided into two equal groups (n=60) depending on the administration of S. boulardii CNCM I-745 probiotic drug in addition to standard treatment. The probiotic was prescribed by the attending physician; the dose was 2 capsules per day (500 mg/day) 30 min before the meal for 10 days. All patients were monitored for main clinical, laboratory, and instrumental parameters during the study. In addition, the symptom of diarrhea (stool with a frequency of more than 3 times a day of type 6 and 7 according to the Bristol stool scale), including its frequency, duration, and the number of bowel movements of loose stool per day were precisely evaluated in both groups.
Results. In the overall patient pool, diarrhea was reported in 21.7% of in-patients during the observation period (95% confidence interval [CI] 14.229.1) with a mean duration of 4.6154 days (95% CI 3.7910-5.4398). The incidence of diarrhea in group 1 was 13.3% (95% CI 4.522.2), and in group 2, it was 30.0% (95% CI 18.141.9). Relative risk showed that the use of the S. boulardii CNCM I-745 probiotic drug leads to a significant reduction in the risk of diarrhea in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 infection receiving antibiotic therapy (odds ratio [OR] 0.3590, 95% CI 0.14210.9069; p=0.0303). In group 1, the duration of diarrhea was 3.1250 days (95% CI 2.58923.6608) versus 5.2778 days (95% CI 4.22906.3265) in group 2, p=0.0112. The mean daily frequency of loose stools in patients with diarrhea in group 1 was 3.2500 (95% CI 2.65883.8412) versus 4.3889 (95% CI 3.72525.0525) in group 2, p=0.0272. The secondary endpoint, duration of hospital stay, was also significantly shorter in group 1 patients 11.6833 days (95% CI 11.204212.1625) versus 12.7333 days (95% CI 12.135713.3309) in group 2, p=0.0120.
Conclusion. The present prospective comparative study demonstrated that adding S. boulardii CNCM I-745 probiotic drug into the standard treatment regimen of patients with new coronavirus infection COVID-19 receiving antibiotic therapy helps reduce the incidence of diarrhea and its severity during hospitalization, as well as the duration of hospital stay.
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18
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Theocharidou E, Adebayo D. Challenges in liver transplantation in the context of a major pandemic. World J Transplant 2022; 12:347-358. [PMID: 36437846 PMCID: PMC9693897 DOI: 10.5500/wjt.v12.i11.347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) has led to a temporary suspension of liver transplant activity across the world and the remodeling of care for patients on the waiting list and transplant recipients with the increasing use of remote consultations. Emerging evidence shows that patients with more advanced liver disease are at increased risk of severe COVID-19 and death, whereas transplant recipients have similar risk with the general population which is mainly driven by age and metabolic comorbidities. Tacrolimus immunosuppression might have a protective role in the post-transplant population. Vaccines that have become rapidly available seem to be safe in liver patients, but the antibody response in transplant patients is likely suboptimal. Most transplant centers were gradually able to resume activity soon after the onset of the pandemic and after modifying their pathways to optimize safety for patients and workforce. Preliminary evidence regarding utilizing grafts from positive donors and/or transplanting recently recovered or infected recipients under certain circumstances is encouraging and may allow offering life-saving transplant to patients at the greatest need. This review summarizes the currently available data on liver transplantation in the context of a major pandemic and discusses areas of uncertainty and future challenges. Lessons learnt from the COVID-19 pandemic might provide invaluable guidance for future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni Theocharidou
- 2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Konstantinoupoleos 49, 54642, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Danielle Adebayo
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust, London Road, Reading, RG1 5AN, United Kingdom
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19
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Akaishi T, Takahashi T, Sato S, Jin X, Masamune A, Ishii T. Prolonged Diarrhea Following COVID-19 Vaccination: A Case Report and Literature Review. TOHOKU J EXP MED 2022; 257:251-259. [PMID: 35644543 DOI: 10.1620/tjem.2022.j043] [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: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Vaccination against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is currently underway across countries worldwide. However, the prevalence and characteristics of prolonged adverse events lasting for several months after receiving the vaccine remain largely unknown. We herein report a 46-year-old woman with prolonged diarrhea and vomiting after receiving the BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine for COVID-19. She had no notable medical history, including that of gastrointestinal diseases. She developed vomiting several hours after receiving the first vaccine dose and further developed severe diarrhea after 7 days. Several days after the second vaccine dose, her condition deteriorated, unrelieved by symptomatic therapies, including anti-diarrheal drugs. Abdominal computed tomography (CT) revealed inflammatory changes in the entire segment of the small intestine with wall thickening. The upper and lower gastrointestinal and capsule endoscopies were unremarkable. The patient's symptoms persisted for more than 6 months after the second vaccine dose. A Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) database search suggested that diarrhea is observed in approximately 3% of all vaccine recipients, but a literature review indicated that prolonged gastrointestinal symptoms lasting for several months is very rare. In summary, a case of prolonged unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms, possibly based on inflammatory changes in the small intestine, is described. A literature search revealed that this type of manifestation is very rare, and further evidence is needed to determine the causality between vaccination and gastrointestinal symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tetsuya Akaishi
- Department of Education and Support for Regional Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital.,Division of General Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital
| | - Takahiro Takahashi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Satoko Sato
- Department of Pathology, Tohoku University Hospital
| | - Xiaoyi Jin
- Division of Gastroenterology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Atsushi Masamune
- Division of Gastroenterology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Tadashi Ishii
- Department of Education and Support for Regional Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital.,Division of General Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital
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20
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Prognostic Value of Transaminases and Bilirubin Levels at Admission to Hospital on Disease Progression and Mortality in Patients with COVID-19—An Observational Retrospective Study. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11060652. [PMID: 35745506 PMCID: PMC9227474 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11060652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Given the impact of COVID-19 on the world healthcare system, and the efforts of the healthcare community to find prognostic factors for hospitalization, disease progression, and mortality, the aim of the present study was to investigate the prognostic impact of transaminases and bilirubin levels at admission to hospital on disease progression and mortality in COVID-19 patients. Methods: Using the CoviCamp database, we performed a multicenter, observational, retrospective study involving 17 COVID-19 Units in southern Italy. We included all adult patients hospitalized for SARS-CoV-2 infection with at least one determination at hospital admission of aminotransaminases and/or total bilirubin. Results: Of the 2054 patients included in the CoviCamp database, 1641 were included in our study; 789 patients (48%) were considered to have mild COVID-19, 347 (21%) moderate COVID-19, 354 (22%) severe COVID-19, and 151 patients (9%) died during hospitalization. Older age (odds ratio (OR): 1.02; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01–1.03), higher Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) (OR 1.088; 95%CI 1.005–1.18), presence of dementia (OR: 2.20; 95% CI: 1.30–3.73), higher serum AST (OR: 1.002; 95% CI: 1.0001–1.004), and total bilirubin (OR: 1.09; 95% CI: 1.002–1.19) values were associated with a more severe clinical outcome. Instead, the 151 patients who died during hospitalization showed a higher serum bilirubin value at admission (OR 1.1165; 95% CI: 1.017–1.335); the same did not apply for AST. Discussion: Patients with COVID-19 with higher levels of AST and bilirubin had an increased risk of disease progression.
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