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COVID-19 and metabolic disease: mechanisms and clinical management

Charlotte Steenblock1, Peter E H Schwarz2, Barbara Ludwig3

  • 1Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.

The Lancet. Diabetes & Endocrinology
|October 7, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Metabolic disorders increase severe COVID-19 risk and SARS-CoV-2 infection can worsen these conditions. This review details mechanisms, management, and treatments for patients with COVID-19 and metabolic dysfunction.

Area of Science:

  • Endocrinology
  • Metabolic Medicine
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Metabolic and vascular disorders are prevalent in COVID-19 fatalities, affecting up to 50% of deaths.
  • Strong links exist between COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) and metabolic/endocrine systems.
  • Metabolic dysfunction, including obesity, hypertension, NAFLD, and diabetes, elevates severe COVID-19 risk.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review mechanisms linking metabolic/endocrine disorders to severe COVID-19.
  • To update practical recommendations for managing COVID-19 patients with metabolic issues.
  • To summarize new treatments and challenges for co-occurring COVID-19 and diabetes.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of mechanisms connecting metabolic disorders and COVID-19 severity.
  • Analysis of current clinical guidelines and post-pandemic management strategies.
  • Synthesis of emerging treatment options for patients with both conditions.

Main Results:

  • Metabolic disorders predispose individuals to severe COVID-19.
  • SARS-CoV-2 infection can precipitate new-onset diabetes or exacerbate existing metabolic conditions.
  • Updated management strategies and novel therapeutic approaches are crucial.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding the interplay between metabolic health and COVID-19 is critical for patient outcomes.
  • Integrated management strategies are needed for effective COVID-19 care in patients with metabolic dysfunction.
  • Further research into targeted treatments for COVID-19 in diabetic and metabolically compromised populations is warranted.

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