Cardiovascular System in COVID-19: Simply a Viewer or a Leading Actor?

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has led to widespread illness and mortality globally since January 2020.
• Emerging evidence indicates a strong association between SARS-CoV-2 infection and cardiovascular complications.
• These complications disproportionately affect elderly individuals, those with pre-existing cardiovascular risk factors (e.g., hypertension, diabetes, obesity), and cancer patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize current scientific literature on cardiac involvement in SARS-CoV-2 infection.
• To elucidate the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying cardiovascular manifestations of COVID-19.
• To discuss the clinical implications of these cardiac issues for patient management.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of peer-reviewed scientific papers published to date.
• Analysis of studies focusing on cardiovascular manifestations in COVID-19 patients.
• Examination of pathophysiological pathways linking SARS-CoV-2 to cardiac injury.

Main Results:

• COVID-19 is linked to myocardial damage, myocarditis, pericarditis, and heart failure.
• Increased thromboembolic risk is a significant concern in SARS-CoV-2 infected individuals.
• Cardiovascular manifestations are more severe in older patients and those with comorbidities.

Conclusions:

• SARS-CoV-2 infection poses a substantial threat to cardiovascular health.
• Understanding the mechanisms of cardiac involvement is crucial for developing effective treatment strategies.
• Close monitoring and management of cardiovascular complications are essential for improving outcomes in COVID-19 patients.