COVID-19 and the liver: A 2021 update

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Virology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) caused a global pandemic, leading to millions of deaths.
• COVID-19 primarily affects the respiratory system but also causes extrapulmonary manifestations.
• Liver injury is a recognized complication of COVID-19, impacting various organ systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the pathophysiology of COVID-19 related liver injury.
• To analyze the impact of COVID-19 on patients with chronic liver disease (CLD).
• To discuss the management of CLD during the COVID-19 pandemic and its long-term effects.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on COVID-19 and liver injury.
• Analysis of mechanisms causing liver damage in COVID-19 patients.
• Examination of clinical outcomes and management strategies for CLD during the pandemic.

Main Results:

• SARS-CoV-2 infection can lead to direct or indirect liver injury through various mechanisms.
• COVID-19 poses significant risks to individuals with pre-existing chronic liver disease.
• Management of CLD requires careful consideration of pandemic-related challenges and potential long-term sequelae.

Conclusions:

• COVID-19-associated liver injury is a complex issue with significant implications for patient outcomes.
• Effective management strategies are crucial for protecting patients with chronic liver disease during the pandemic.
• Further research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of COVID-19 on liver health.