What gastroenterologists should know during COVID-19 Pandemic!

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Hepatology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic presents with diverse symptoms beyond respiratory issues, including gastrointestinal and hepatic dysfunction.
• These non-respiratory symptoms can delay diagnosis and management of COVID-19.
• The impact of COVID-19 on patients with decompensated liver disease remains unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the gastrointestinal and hepatic manifestations of COVID-19.
• To discuss the challenges in managing patients with liver disease during the pandemic.
• To emphasize the need for precautionary measures and appropriate endoscopic procedures.

Main Methods:

• Review of current understanding of COVID-19's impact on the liver and gastrointestinal system.
• Discussion of management strategies for immunosuppressed patients.
• Guidance on endoscopic procedures during the pandemic.

Main Results:

• Gastrointestinal and hepatic dysfunction are significant, potentially delaying COVID-19 diagnosis.
• Virus shedding can persist, posing a fecal-oral transmission risk.
• Management of immunosuppressive drugs in liver transplant and IBD patients is challenging without clear guidelines.

Conclusions:

• COVID-19 poses unique challenges for patients with liver disease.
• Strict adherence to personal protective equipment and prioritizing emergency endoscopy are crucial.
• Precautionary measures are essential in the absence of definitive treatments.