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Hematological alterations associated with long COVID-19
Guilherme C Lechuga1,2,3, Carlos M Morel1, Salvatore Giovanni De-Simone1,2,4
1Center for Technological Development in Health (CDTS)/ National Institute of Science and Technology for Innovation in Neglected Population Diseases (INCT-IDPN), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Insights
Long COVID-19 can cause lasting hematological changes, including anemia and lymphopenia. These persistent blood abnormalities may impact understanding and treatment of the condition.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Background:
- Long COVID-19 presents with persistent symptoms beyond acute infection.
- Hematological system impacts are observed in COVID-19 patients, correlating with disease severity.
- Understanding Long COVID-19 pathophysiology requires investigating its effects on blood parameters.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and synthesize findings on hematological parameters in individuals with Long COVID-19.
- To identify common and sustained hematological alterations associated with Long COVID-19.
Main Methods:
- Literature review methodology.
- Identification and analysis of studies reporting hematological parameters in Long COVID-19 patients.
Main Results:
- Long COVID-19 is associated with sustained hematological alterations.
- Observed changes include red blood cell abnormalities, anemia, and lymphopenia.
- Elevated inflammatory markers like ferritin, D-dimer, and IL-6 are frequently reported.
Conclusions:
- Sustained hematological alterations are a feature of Long COVID-19.
- These findings may aid in understanding Long COVID-19 pathophysiology.
- Further research is necessary to explore mechanisms and therapeutic strategies for these hematological changes.
Abstract:
Long COVID-19 is a condition characterized by persistent symptoms lasting beyond the acute phase of COVID-19. Long COVID-19 produces diverse symptomatology and can impact organs and systems, including the hematological system. Several studies have reported, in COVID-19 patients, hematological abnormalities. Most of these alterations are associated with a higher risk of severe disease and poor outcomes. This literature review identified studies reporting hematological parameters in individuals with Long COVID-19. Findings suggest that Long COVID-19 is associated with a range of sustained hematological alterations, including alterations in red blood cells, anemia, lymphopenia, and elevated levels of inflammatory markers such as ferritin, D-dimer, and IL-6. These alterations may contribute to a better understanding of the pathophysiology of Long COVID-19 and its associated symptoms. However, further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and potential treatments for these hematological changes in individuals with Long COVID-19.
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