Cardiovascular manifestations of COVID-19: An evidence-based narrative review

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has emerged as a global health crisis.
• While primarily a respiratory illness, SARS-CoV-2 infection is increasingly recognized for its significant cardiovascular implications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the cardiovascular risk factors associated with COVID-19.
• To elucidate the diverse cardiovascular manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
• To highlight the importance of understanding this complex association for patient management.

Main Methods:

• This review synthesizes current literature on COVID-19 and its cardiovascular effects.
• It examines the mechanisms underlying SARS-CoV-2-induced cardiac injury.
• Information on cardiovascular risk factors and clinical manifestations is compiled.

Main Results:

• SARS-CoV-2 infection can lead to endothelial dysfunction, microangiopathy, and thrombosis.
• Cardiovascular manifestations include acute coronary syndrome, myocarditis, heart failure, and arrhythmias.
• Elevated cardiac biomarkers like troponin and natriuretic peptides indicate acute myocardial injury.

Conclusions:

• COVID-19 poses a substantial threat to cardiovascular health, particularly in individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular diseases.
• The mechanisms of cardiac injury involve hyperinflammation and direct viral effects.
• Effective management strategies require a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between COVID-19 and cardiovascular complications.