[Severe bowel complications in SARS-CoV-2 patients receiving protocolized care]

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Infectious Diseases
• Surgical Pathology

Context:

• Hospitalized patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection are at risk for severe gastrointestinal complications.
• Gastrointestinal issues represent a significant, potentially fatal, manifestation of SARS-CoV-2.
• This study presents the first detailed case series on severe GI complications in SARS-CoV-2 patients.

Purpose:

• To document and analyze severe gastrointestinal complications in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection.
• To contribute to the understanding of the relationship between SARS-CoV-2 and gastrointestinal pathology.
• To highlight the need for further investigation into risk factors and management.

Summary:

• Ten patients admitted for SARS-CoV-2 infection developed severe gastrointestinal complications, including jejunal and colonic perforations, intestinal necrosis, and one preoperative death.
• Surgical interventions included colectomies, intestinal resections, and primary bowel repair.
• The mortality rate among these patients was 50%.

Impact:

• Identifies spontaneous bowel perforations and acute mesenteric ischemia as critical complications of SARS-CoV-2.
• Underscores the necessity for more research on risk factors, prevention, and treatment of these severe GI manifestations.
• Informs clinical practice regarding potential gastrointestinal sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection.