Coronavirus Historical Perspective, Disease Mechanisms, and Clinical Outcomes: JACC Focus Seminar

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

23 Scopus citations

Abstract

The emergence of a new coronavirus disease (coronavirus disease 2019 [COVID-19]) has raised global concerns regarding the health and safety of a vulnerable population. Infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) incites a profound inflammatory response leading to tissue injury and organ failure. COVID-19 is characterized by the bidirectional relationship between inflammation and thrombosis. The clinical syndrome is propelled by inflammation producing acute lung injury, large-vessel thrombosis, and in situ microthrombi that may contribute to organ failure. Myocardial injury is common, but true myocarditis is rare. Elderly patients, those with established cardiovascular disease, and mechanically ventilated patients face the highest mortality risk. Therapies for COVID-19 are evolving. The antiviral drug remdesivir, dexamethasone, transfusion of convalescent plasma, and use of antithrombotic therapy are promising. Most require additional prospective studies. Although most patients recover, those who survive severe illness may experience persistent physical and psychological disabilities.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1999-2010
Number of pages12
JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology
Volume76
Issue number17
DOIs
StatePublished - 27 Oct 2020

Keywords

  • COVID-19
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • cardiovascular disease
  • inflammation
  • thrombosis

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Coronavirus Historical Perspective, Disease Mechanisms, and Clinical Outcomes: JACC Focus Seminar'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this