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COVID-19 and its effects on the digestive system and endoscopy practice
Enrik John T Aguila1, Ian Homer Y Cua1, Joseph Erwin L Dumagpi1
1Institute of Digestive and Liver Diseases St. Luke's Medical Center - Global City Philippines.
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) impacts the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and liver, causing symptoms like diarrhea and nausea. Early nutritional support and infection control are crucial for managing COVID-19 patients.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
- Hepatology
Background:
- Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by SARS-CoV-2, is a global pandemic.
- Emerging evidence indicates significant gastrointestinal (GI) and liver involvement in COVID-19.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the best evidence and practices concerning SARS-CoV-2 effects on GI practice.
- To highlight the impact of COVID-19 on the GI tract, liver, and nutritional status.
Main Methods:
- Review of published clinical studies and datasets on COVID-19 and GI/liver manifestations.
- Analysis of pooled prevalence data for GI symptoms and liver injury.
Main Results:
- A large dataset (4243 patients) reported a 17.6% prevalence of GI symptoms, often preceding pulmonary symptoms.
- Common GI symptoms include anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
- Incidence of liver injury in COVID-19 patients ranges from 15% to 53%.
Conclusions:
- SARS-CoV-2 significantly affects the GI tract and liver, influencing disease severity and nutritional status.
- Optimized nutrition, including enteral and parenteral support, is vital for critically ill patients.
- GI endoscopy poses risks to healthcare professionals, necessitating strict infection prevention measures.
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