Coronavirus Disease 2019-Associated Coagulopathy

Area of Science:

• Pulmonary and Vascular Medicine
• Infectious Diseases
• Hematology

Background:

• Severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) frequently results in thrombotic events.
• A hypercoagulable state, termed COVID-19-associated coagulopathy, is a key pathophysiologic feature.
• This coagulopathy contributes to widespread thrombosis and multiorgan dysfunction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the pathophysiologic mechanisms of COVID-19-associated coagulopathy.
• To analyze clinical, histopathologic, and laboratory evidence.
• To establish COVID-19 as a significant vascular disorder.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent insights into COVID-19-associated coagulopathy.
• Analysis of clinical manifestations of thrombosis in COVID-19 patients.
• Examination of histopathologic findings related to vascular damage.
• Review of laboratory markers associated with hypercoagulability.

Main Results:

• COVID-19-associated coagulopathy involves both arterial and venous thrombosis.
• Initial vascular insults in the pulmonary microvasculature can progress to systemic involvement.
• Evidence supports widespread thrombosis and multiorgan dysfunction as consequences.

Conclusions:

• COVID-19-associated coagulopathy is a major contributor to severe COVID-19 morbidity and mortality.
• COVID-19 should be recognized as a significant pulmonary and vascular disorder.
• Understanding the vascular aspects is crucial for managing severe COVID-19.