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Updated: Aug 24, 2025
The Murine Choline-Deficient, Ethionine-Supplemented CDE Diet Model of Chronic Liver Injury
Published on: October 21, 2017
[Liver and COVID-19: possible mechanisms of damage]
M G Mnatsakanyan1, A P Pogromov1, A S Lishuta1
1Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University).
Abstract:
The global epidemic of a new coronavirus infection caused by SARS-CoV-2 is a major threat to human health. In the clinical picture, along with acute respiratory distress syndrome, liver lesions are also noted. The following mechanisms are currently being considered: direct damaging effects of SARS-CoV-2, immuno-mediated inflammation, hypoxia, drug exposure, and reactivation of pre-existing liver disease. We studied 150 patients with COVID-pneumonia who are under inpatient treatment at the University Clinical Hospital No. 1 of Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University. Of these, the presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction in 84 (56.0%) patients. In 55 (36.7%) patients, an increase in serum aminotransferases was registered, mainly alanine aminotransferase max. up to 572 U/L and aspartate aminotransferase up to a max. of 232 U/L. The long-term consequences are unknown and require monitoring of these patients.
Insights
COVID-19 pneumonia can cause liver damage, with 36.7% of patients showing elevated liver enzymes. Further monitoring is needed to understand the long-term effects of SARS-CoV-2 on liver health.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
Context:
- The global SARS-CoV-2 pandemic presents significant health challenges.
- Beyond respiratory symptoms, COVID-19 is associated with hepatic manifestations.
- Potential mechanisms include direct viral effects, inflammation, hypoxia, and drug toxicity.
Purpose:
- To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of liver injury in patients with COVID-pneumonia.
- To analyze liver enzyme elevations in a cohort of hospitalized COVID-19 patients.
Summary:
- A study of 150 patients with COVID-pneumonia was conducted.
- SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected in 56% of patients.
- Elevated serum aminotransferases (ALT and AST) were observed in 36.7% of patients, indicating liver damage.
Impact:
- Highlights the significant incidence of liver enzyme abnormalities in COVID-19 patients.
- Underscores the need for continued patient monitoring to ascertain long-term hepatic consequences.
- Contributes to understanding the multifaceted clinical presentation of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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