COVID-19-Associated Cardiovascular Complications: A Narrative Literature Review

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by SARS-CoV-2, is a global health crisis.
• Initially viewed as respiratory, COVID-19 is now recognized as a systemic disease with significant cardiovascular implications.
• Cardiovascular complications affect both patients with and without pre-existing heart conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current evidence on cardiovascular complications in adult COVID-19 patients in the U.S.
• To highlight differences in cardiovascular pathology between those with and without prior cardiovascular disease.
• To discuss mechanisms, clinical features, diagnostics, and management of COVID-19-related cardiovascular issues.

Main Methods:

• This study is a narrative review of existing literature.
• Focuses on adult patients diagnosed with COVID-19 in the United States.
• Synthesizes evidence regarding cardiovascular manifestations and outcomes.

Main Results:

• COVID-19 can lead to myocardial injury, myocarditis, heart failure, arrhythmias, and thromboembolic events.
• These complications increase disease severity and mortality.
• Understanding these effects is crucial for patient management.

Conclusions:

• COVID-19 poses substantial cardiovascular risks, necessitating increased clinical awareness.
• Timely recognition and appropriate management are key to improving outcomes for affected patients.
• Further research into mechanisms and treatments is warranted.