Assessment of Endothelial Function in Patients with COVID-19 Using Peripheral Arterial Tonometry

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Research
• Infectious Diseases
• Vascular Biology

Background:

• COVID-19 is increasingly linked to endothelial dysfunction, potentially leading to thrombotic and cardiovascular issues.
• Endothelial function assessment is crucial for understanding post-COVID-19 complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate endothelial function in COVID-19 survivors using peripheral arterial tonometry (EndoPAT).
• To determine the persistence of endothelial dysfunction and its association with clinical outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Peripheral arterial tonometry (EndoPAT) was used to measure the hyperemic vascular response index (LnRHI).
• A cohort of 23 COVID-19 patients was compared to 22 matched controls.
• Measurements were taken during hospitalization, at two months, and at six months post-discharge.

Main Results:

• COVID-19 patients showed significantly reduced LnRHI at two months post-discharge compared to controls (p=0.012).
• This difference in endothelial function was present during hospitalization and persisted at six months.
• A high proportion of COVID-19 patients (61% during hospitalization, 55% at six months) exhibited endothelial dysfunction (LnRHI ≤ 0.51).

Conclusions:

• COVID-19 adversely affects endothelial function, evidenced by a persistent reduction in LnRHI.
• Endothelial dysfunction is common among COVID-19 survivors and may persist long-term.
• While endothelial dysfunction was observed, no significant differences in thrombotic events, cardiovascular complications, or mortality were found in this cohort.