COVID-19: an update and cardiac involvement

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Cardiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a significant global health threat.
• The virus primarily targets the respiratory system but also causes cardiac injury and long-term cardiovascular damage.
• Extra-pulmonary manifestations and prolonged consequences of COVID-19 are often underestimated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the characteristics of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), including its pathogen, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment.
• To emphasize the cardiovascular involvement in COVID-19 based on current scientific evidence.
• To highlight the ongoing research into supportive therapies for COVID-19.

Main Methods:

• This is a review article, synthesizing existing evidence.
• The review focuses on current scientific literature and clinical data.
• Information on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) for COVID-19 treatments is included.

Main Results:

• COVID-19 presents with pneumonia and can lead to acute cardiac injury and chronic cardiovascular damage.
• Pre-existing cardiovascular conditions or new cardiac complications are associated with poorer clinical outcomes.
• While no specific treatment exists, supportive therapies are under investigation with promising early results.

Conclusions:

• COVID-19 poses a significant threat due to its multifaceted effects, particularly on the cardiovascular system.
• Further research and clinical trials are crucial for developing effective treatments and managing long-term consequences.
• Understanding and addressing cardiovascular involvement is key to improving patient outcomes in COVID-19.