Approach to Acute Cardiovascular Complications in COVID-19 Infection

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Critical Care Medicine

Background:

• COVID-19 pandemic has caused widespread respiratory illness globally.
• Patients with cardiovascular disease face severe COVID-19 manifestations and higher mortality.
• COVID-19 presents with primary cardiac issues (arrhythmias, myocarditis) and secondary injury (heart failure).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the presentation and management of severe cardiac complications in COVID-19 patients.
• To emphasize the role of a Heart-Lung team in managing these complex cases.
• To outline indications for acute mechanical circulatory support in cardiogenic and/or mixed shock.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on severe cardiac complications of COVID-19.
• Analysis of patient presentation and management strategies.
• Evaluation of acute mechanical circulatory support in shock.

Main Results:

• COVID-19 can lead to primary and secondary cardiac involvement, including arrhythmias, myocardial infarction, myocarditis, and heart failure.
• Severe cases may result in profound circulatory failure (shock).
• A multidisciplinary Heart-Lung team approach is vital for optimal patient outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Severe cardiac complications are a significant concern in COVID-19 patients, particularly those with pre-existing cardiovascular disease.
• Management requires a coordinated Heart-Lung team approach.
• Acute mechanical circulatory support is indicated for specific cases of cardiogenic or mixed shock.