Acute Mesenteric Ischemia in Patients with COVID-19: Review of the literature

J Natl Med Assoc. 2022 Feb;114(1):47-55. doi: 10.1016/j.jnma.2021.12.003. Epub 2021 Dec 29.

Abstract

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has resulted in a global health emergency. In addition to common respiratory symptoms, some patients with COVID-19 infections may experience a range of extra-pulmonary manifestations, such as digestive system involvement. Patients with COVID-19 have been reported to suffer from acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI) that is associated with disease-related severity and mortality. However, in the context of COVID-19, the exact cause of AMI has yet to be clearly defined. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the available data and elucidates the possible underlying mechanisms linking COVID-19 to AMI, in addition to highlighting therapeutic approaches for clinicians. Finally, given the severe global impact of COVID-19, we emphasize the importance of coordinated vaccination programs.

Keywords: Acute mesenteric ischemia; COVID-19; Gastrointestinal disorders; SARS-CoV-2; Therapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19* / complications
  • Humans
  • Lung
  • Mesenteric Ischemia* / etiology
  • Mesenteric Ischemia* / therapy
  • Pandemics
  • SARS-CoV-2