Coronavirus disease 2019 and stroke

Thabele M Leslie-Mazwi1, Kittipong Srivatanakul2

  • 1Department of Neurology, 7284University of Washington, USA.

Insights

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) affects neurological and vascular systems, impacting acute stroke care. Understanding direct and indirect effects is crucial for optimizing stroke treatment during the pandemic.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Vascular Medicine
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a multisystem illness with significant neurological and vascular implications.
  • The pandemic has highlighted the complex interaction between viral infections and cerebrovascular events, particularly acute stroke.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To detail the multifaceted impact of COVID-19 on acute stroke.
  • To differentiate between direct and indirect effects of COVID-19 on stroke pathophysiology and care.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current literature on COVID-19's effects on the cerebrovascular system.
  • Analysis of direct viral effects (tissue invasion, inflammation) and indirect effects (healthcare system disruption) on stroke.

Main Results:

  • Direct effects include coagulopathies, endotheliitis, systemic inflammation, and plaque instability, potentially leading to long-term cardiovascular issues.
  • Indirect effects significantly disrupt all facets of acute stroke care delivery.
  • Both direct and indirect impacts necessitate a focused approach within stroke systems of care.

Conclusions:

  • COVID-19 presents a dual threat to acute stroke patients through direct physiological damage and indirect disruption of care.
  • Stroke systems must adapt to mitigate these impacts for improved patient outcomes.

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