The COVID-19 pandemic, heart and cardiovascular diseases: What we have learned

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Virology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly impacted global health systems and revealed significant interactions with cardiovascular diseases (CVD).
• Patients with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions face higher hospitalization rates, ICU admissions, and poorer prognoses when infected with SARS-CoV-2.
• Emerging research highlights the multifaceted influence of SARS-CoV-2 beyond respiratory effects, particularly on cardiovascular health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To elucidate the mechanisms by which SARS-CoV-2 affects cardiovascular diseases (CVD).
• To describe cardiac and vascular pathologies observed in COVID-19 patients.
• To examine the pandemic's influence on CVD diagnosis and treatment strategies.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on SARS-CoV-2 and its impact on the cardiovascular system.
• Analysis of mechanisms involving the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) and ACE2 receptors.
• Discussion of clinical observations and treatment pattern changes during the pandemic.

Main Results:

• SARS-CoV-2 infection is linked to cardiovascular complications through pathways involving RAAS and ACE2.
• Key cardiac and vascular pathologies have been identified in COVID-19 patients, including potential triggers for acute coronary syndrome (ACS).
• The pandemic has led to altered CVD treatment, with reduced invasive diagnostics and potential underestimation of CVD prevalence due to patient apprehension.

Conclusions:

• SARS-CoV-2 poses a significant threat to cardiovascular health, necessitating a deeper understanding of its mechanisms and clinical manifestations.
• The pandemic has reshaped the landscape of cardiovascular care, impacting diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
• Continued research is crucial to manage cardiovascular complications effectively in the context of COVID-19 and future pandemics.