Concurrent COVID-19 Infection Research Articles

Scoping Review of Clinical Presentations and Outcomes in Patients with Concomitant COVID-19 Infection and Acute Mesenteric Ischaemia.

COVID-19 infection confers an increased risk of coagulation dysfunction (1) predisposing to thromboembolism in many anatomical sites including the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) (2). This study investigates the clinical presentation and outcome in patients presenting with concurrent COVID-19 infection and gastrointestinal tract ischaemia. Furthermore, differentiation and comparisons are drawn between those with arterial and venous aetiology for mesenteric ischaemia. A systematic search was undertaken on EMBASE, PubMed, and MEDLINE. Two independent reviewers screened titles, abstracts, and full-text articles according to the inclusion criteria and extracted relevant data. Data analyses were conducted using Excel®. Forty-one studies were included in the data analyses, yielding 44 patients. Twenty-six patients had mesenteric arterial occlusion, sixteen patients had mesenteric venous occlusion, and two patients had both arterial and venous mesenteric occlusion. All patients had concurrent COVID-19 infection. The survival rate in patients with arterial aetiology was 38.5% in contrast to 68.8% in patients with venous aetiology. Twelve patients (29.3%) experienced respiratory symptoms in the community before the onset of gastrointestinal symptoms, and five (12.2%) developed gastrointestinal symptoms during their inpatient stay for COVID-19 pneumonitis. Acute mesenteric ischaemia presents a clinical challenge to diagnose due to its non-specific symptoms. Concurrent COVID-19 infection with its predominant respiratory symptoms adds a further challenge in recognising the non-specific symptoms of mesenteric ischaemia. Our study draws attention to the increased thromboembolic risk posed by COVID-19 infection and the need for a high index of suspicion to aid prompt diagnosis and management of acute mesenteric ischaemia, even in the post-pandemic era.

The impact of prior SARS-CoV-2 infection on host inflammatory cytokine profiles in patients with TB or other respiratory diseases.

Tuberculosis (TB) and COVID-19 are the two leading causes of infectious disease mortality worldwide, and their overlap is likely frequent and inevitable. Previous research has shown increased mortality in TB/COVID-coinfected individuals, and emerging evidence suggests that COVID-19 may increase susceptibility to TB. However, the immunological mechanisms underlying these interactions remain unclear. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the impact of prior or concurrent COVID-19 infection on immune profiles of TB patients and those with other respiratory diseases (ORD). Serum and nasopharyngeal samples were collected from 161 Gambian adolescents and adults with either TB or an ORD. Concurrent COVID-19 infection was determined by PCR, while prior COVID-19 was defined by antibody seropositivity. Multiplex cytokine immunoassays were used to quantify 27 cytokines and chemokines in patient serum samples at baseline, and throughout treatment in TB patients. Strikingly, TB and ORD patients with prior COVID-19 infection were found to have significantly reduced expression of several cytokines, including IL-1β, TNF-α and IL-7, compared to those without (p<0.035). Moreover, at month-six of anti-TB treatment, seropositive patients had lower serum Basic FGF (p=0.0115), IL-1β (p=0.0326) and IL-8 (p=0.0021) than seronegative. TB patients with acute COVID-19 coinfection had lower levels of IL-8, IL-13, TNF-α and IP-10 than TB-only patients, though these trends did not reach significance (p>0.035). Our findings demonstrate that COVID-19 infection alters the subsequent response to TB and ORDs, potentially contributing to pathogenesis. Further work is necessary to determine whether COVID-19 infection accelerates TB disease progression, though our results experimentally support this hypothesis.

Optimized Double-Unit Cord Blood Transplantation Mitigates Transplant-Related Mortality Resulting in High Progression-Free Survival in Adults with Hematologic Malignancies

Background : Double-unit cord blood transplantation (dCBT) with intermediate intensity conditioning (Cy50/ Flu150/ Thio10/ TBI400cGy) and cyclosporine-A (CSA)/ mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) prophylaxis has been associated with high progression-free survival (PFS) in adult patients (pts) with hematologic malignancies ( Barker JN et al, Blood Advances 2020). Now, our Center has investigated multiple refinements to further mitigate transplant-related mortality (TRM). Herein, we have analyzed transplant outcomes in these adult dCBT pts to establish an optimized dCBT platform. Methods : Consecutive adult first allograft pts with high-risk hematologic malignancies who underwent first allografts with intermediate intensity dCBT between 3/2018-8/2022 were analyzed. Optimizations involved further refined unit selection placing highest priority on unit quality (i.e. optimized banking practices) &amp; CD34+ cell dose over HLA-match, ensuring therapeutic (CSA) levels (&amp;gt; 250 ng/mL) by day 0, prompt treatment of pre-engraftment syndrome (PES) &amp; letermovir prophylaxis in CMV seropositive pts from day +7. Also, we have investigated 2 strategies to mitigate acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD): pts early in the study period received CSA, MMF &amp; tocilizumab (8 mg/kg on day -1) prophylaxis ( Toci Group), whereas recent pts ( Recent Group) received CSA/ MMF with prompt therapy of clinically diagnosed aGVHD. Results : Of 74 patients (Table), 49 were in the Toci Group, &amp; 25 in the Recent Group. Most pts were transplanted for acute leukemia (n = 55, 74%) &amp; over half (n = 39, 53%) had non-European ancestry. Distribution of diagnoses, CMV serostatus, HCT-CI &amp; graft characteristics were similar between the groups but Recent Group pts tended to be younger (38 vs. 47 years, p = 0.071). Toci Group pts had delayed neutrophil recovery [engraftment incidence 94% (95%CI: 87-99) at a median of 25 days (range 16-40), one graft failure], but low rates of PES (n = 19, 39%). The day-100 incidence of grade II-IV &amp; III-IV aGVHD were 69% (95%CI: 56-82) &amp; 10% (95%CI: 2-19), respectively. One pt (false negative CMV-serostatus) who did not receive letermovir had CMV infection. One-year TRM was 16% (95%CI: 6-27) with a 1-year relapse rate of 6% (95%CI: 3-13). TRM was due to infection (n = 3), aGVHD (n = 3, 1 with concurrent COVID-19 infection), multiorgan failure (n = 2) &amp; graft failure (n = 1). With a median follow-up of 47 months (range 28-62), the 1-year OS was 84% (95%CI: 73-94) &amp; 1-year PFS was 78% (95%CI: 66-89). By contrast, the engraftment incidence in Recent Group pts was 100% with a faster median neutrophil recovery of 19 days (range 11-36, p = 0.002) &amp; all engrafted platelets at a median of 36 days (range 24-92). However, most Recent group pts developed PES [n = 20 (80%), p &amp;lt; 0.001] although this responded promptly to short course corticosteroids. Day 100 grade II-IV aGVHD was also higher [92% (95%CI: 81-99), p = 0.009], although grade III-IV aGVHD was low [8% (95%CI: &amp;lt;1-19)] &amp; similar to tocilizumab pts. Day 100 incidence of CMV was 0%. With a median follow-up of 17 months (range 6-50), the 1-year TRM in Recent Group pts is 0% with a 1-year relapse incidence of 13% (95%CI: 7-27). Consequently, the 1-year OS &amp; PFS are high at 96% (95%: 89-99) &amp; 87% (95%CI: 74-99), respectively (Figure). Conclusions: Optimized dCBT with intermediate intensity conditioning, graft selection that prioritizes unit quality &amp; CD34+ dose, CSA/ MMF prophylaxis with prompt therapy of PES &amp; aGVHD, &amp; letermovir CMV prophylaxis mitigates TRM in young &amp; middle-aged adults. Thus, combined with relatively low relapse rates, the PFS &amp; OS are high. Tocilizumab has been abandoned due to its notable association with delayed neutrophil engraftment &amp; lack of survival advantage. Letermovir is highly effective completely preventing CMV infections &amp; may contribute to the reduced aGVHD-related mortality recently (as compared to the pre-tocilizumab era), since avoidance of CMV antiviral therapy toxicities greatly facilitates aGVHD prevention &amp; therapy. Given the rapid availability of cryopreserved unmanipulated CB grafts &amp; frequent limitations of URD availability for minority populations, optimized dCBT is a highly attractive curative therapy for acute leukemias &amp; other high-risk myeloid malignancies warranting prospective multi-center investigation.

Impact of COVID 19 on Patients with Multiple Myeloma : A National Inpatient Sample Analysis

Introduction: Multiple myeloma (MM) is characterized by the proliferation of clonal immunoglobulins and suppression of normal immunoglobulins. These patients are susceptible to infections due to multiple factors such as hypogammaglobulinemia, impaired lymphocyte function, steroid-related immunosuppression, and neutropenia secondary to chemotherapy. There is limited data on the association of COVID-19 infection with in-hospital outcomes of MM. We hypothesize that COVID-19 infection is associated with adverse outcomes. Methodology: We queried the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) Database 2020 for adult (aged ≥ 18 years) hospitalizations with a primary diagnosis of MM. The cohort was subcategorized based on the presence of COVID-19 infection. The primary outcome studied was in-hospital mortality. Multiple secondary outcomes were analyzed including length of stay, cost of hospital stay, and individual organ system failures. Multivariable logistic regression was performed adjusting for patient and hospital level characteristics to evaluate outcomes. An alpha error of 0.05 was accepted for all analyses. Results: A total of 111,540 MM hospitalizations were included in the study, of which 2,195 (1.96%) had concomitant COVID-19 infection. The mean age was almost similar in both groups. Patients with MM and concurrent COVID-19 infection, had significantly higher in-hospital mortality [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 6.54, 95% CI 5.25-8.20, p&amp;lt;0.001], length of stay [aOR 4.12 (2.92-5.32), p&amp;lt;0.001] and hospitalization cost [$54,940 ($34,688-$75,191), p&amp;lt;0.001]. They had higher rates of cardiac arrest (2.9% vs 1.1%, p&amp;lt;0.001), acute renal failure (48.8% vs 31.3%, p&amp;lt;0.001), acute liver failure (2.5 % vs 1.1%, p&amp;lt;0.001), acute respiratory failure (50.8% vs 17.3%, p&amp;lt;0.001). They also required higher levels of care in terms of hemodialysis (14.8% vs 8.8%, p&amp;lt;0.001), non-invasive ventilation (8.4% vs 3.3%, p&amp;lt;0.001), and invasive ventilation (1.6 % vs 0.3%, p&amp;lt;0.001). Discussion: Patients with MM who were admitted with COVID-19 had higher odds of in-hospital mortality, and developing (end-organ)complications such as cardiac arrest, respiratory failure, renal failure, and liver failure. They also had longer and costlier stays. The development of COVID-19 in patients with MM causes such poor outcomes likely due to shared endothelial dysfunction, thrombosis, and hyperinflammation. Prior studies have also shown impaired response to mRNA vaccination in this population. Thus, as COVID-19 restrictions are now at ease, increased vigilance is required in this vulnerable population. The limitations of our study are retrospective use of the administrative database with a potential of missing or inaccurate data, lack of information on specific treatments in MM patients limiting the ability to assess treatment-related outcomes, and unknown vaccination status.

Oxidative Stress and Antioxidant Defense Mechanisms in Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients with Concurrent COVID-19 Infection

Stroke remains a debilitating cerebrovascular condition associated with oxidative stress, while COVID-19 has emerged as a global health crisis with multifaceted systemic implications. This study investigates the hypothesis that patients experiencing acute ischemic stroke alongside COVID-19 exhibit elevated oxidative stress markers and altered antioxidant defense mechanisms compared to those with acute ischemic stroke. We conducted a single-center prospective cross-sectional study to investigate oxidative stress balance through oxidative damage markers: TBARS (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances level) and PCARB (protein carbonyls); antioxidant defense mechanisms: TAC (total antioxidant capacity), GPx (glutathione peroxidase), GSH (reduced glutathione), CAT (catalase), and SOD (superoxide dismutase); as well as inflammatory response markers: NLR (neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio), CRP (C-reactive protein), and ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate). Statistical analyses and correlation models were employed to elucidate potential associations and predictive factors. Our results revealed increased oxidative stress, predominantly indicated by elevated levels of TBARS in individuals experiencing ischemic stroke alongside a concurrent COVID-19 infection (p &lt; 0.0001). The Stroke-COVID group displayed notably elevated levels of GSH (p = 0.0139 *), GPx (p &lt; 0.0001 ****), SOD (p = 0.0363 *), and CAT (p = 0.0237 *) activities. Multivariate analysis found a significant association for TBARS (p &lt; 0.0001 ****), PCARB (p = 0.0259 *), and GPx activity (p &lt; 0.0001 ****), together with NLR (p = 0.0220 *) and CRP (p = 0.0008 ***). Notably, the interplay between stroke and COVID-19 infection appears to amplify oxidative damage, potentially contributing to exacerbated neurological deficits and poorer outcomes. This study highlights the intricate relationship between oxidative stress, inflammation, and concurrent health conditions. Understanding these interactions may open avenues for novel therapeutic strategies aimed at ameliorating oxidative damage in patients with acute ischemic stroke and COVID-19, ultimately improving their prognosis and quality of life.

Abstract 12670: Trends in Patients With COVID-19 and Device Related Infections: A National Inpatient Sample Trend From 2020

Background: Cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIED) are essential for managing arrhythmias, improving hemodynamics, and preventing sudden cardiac death. However, device-related infections (DRI) remain a significant complication of CIED and are associated with primary adverse outcomes. However, limited data exists on concomitant Covid-19 infection and its effects on outcomes of DRI. Methods: National Inpatient Sample 2020 was used to identify patients hospitalized for DRI based on ICD-10 codes. DRIs were further stratified into concomitant Covid-19 infected patients and non-Covid-19 infected groups. Logistic regression was used to compare in-hospital outcomes. Results: In 2020, there were 59,270 admissions for DRIs. 1,890 (3.2%) DRI cases were observed to have concomitant Covid-19 infection. Racial disparities observed included higher rates of DRI and concurrent Covid-19 infection in the African American (30.6% -vs- 20.2, p=0.002) and Hispanic (18.2% -vs- 9.4%, p=0.002) population. Lead extraction rates were lower in the Covid-19 infection with DRI group (5.33% -vs- 11.17%, p&lt;0.001). Cases with DRI and concurrent Covid-19 infection also had a significantly longer length of stay (LOS, 21.6 -vs- 11.5 days, p&lt;0.001), higher total hospital cost (305,644 -vs- 172,711, p&lt;0.001), and higher mortality (23.1% -vs- 6.6%, p&lt;0.001). This group was also observed to have increased needs for ICU level of care including higher proportion of ARDS, shock, mechanical ventilation and vasopressor use as listed in Table 1. Conclusion: DRIs with concurrent Covid-19 infection had higher all-cause mortality, complication rates, LOS and total hospital costs. Further research needs to be performed to delineate long-term outcomes in this patient population.

Abstract 17538: The Weekend Effect on In-Hospital Outcomes of Elderly Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke and Concurrent COVID-19 Infection: A Nationwide Multicenter Study

Background: Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and COVID-19 are individually associated with poor outcomes. The impact of the pandemic on the US healthcare system, including staff shortages and disparities, may have delayed timely interventions and adherence to guidelines. We investigated the Weekend Effect on outcomes in elderly patients with AIS and COVID-19 to better understand its relationship during the challenging pandemic period. Methods: Using ICD-10-CM codes, we analyzed AIS and COVID-19 hospitalizations among the elderly (&gt;65 years) from the 2020 National Inpatient Sample. Weekday and weekend admissions were compared for baseline characteristics, comorbidities, and outcomes. The multivariable analysis was adjusted for confounding variables. A two-tailed p&lt;0.05 was considered significant. Results: Of 14,070 total AIS and concurrent COVID-19 admissions among the elderly, 10,425 were on weekdays, and 3645 were on weekends. While both cohorts exhibited comparable age distributions, the weekend admissions had a higher percentage of females (47.1% vs. 45.2%) and whites (59.5% vs. 58.1%). They had a higher prevalence of hypertension (82.2% vs. 78.6%), hyperlipidemia (52.9% vs. 50.1%), chronic pulmonary disease (19.1% vs. 17%), obesity (15% vs. 13.6%), depression (10.2% vs. 8.2%). Additionally, all-cause mortality (33.5% vs. 32.5%) and cardiogenic shock (1.9% vs. 1.7%) were slightly higher among weekend admissions. Upon adjusting for confounding factors, the overall mortality rate among weekend admissions showed no significant association, aOR-1.15 [95%CI:0.42-0.96; p-0.169]. Conclusion: Although there is a higher prevalence of comorbidities and overall mortality among weekend admissions, no significant association between the Weekend Effect and poor in-hospital outcomes in elderly COVID-19 patients with AIS was noted. However, ensuring adequate staffing and resource availability during weekends may enhance the quality of care provided.

Abstract 16506: Effect of COVID-19 on Outcomes of Patients Hospitalized With Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy

Introduction: Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy (TCM), commonly known as stress cardiomyopathy, is a condition characterized by the abrupt occurrence of acute left ventricular dysfunction, triggered by a variety of physical and psychosocial factors. The influence of COVID-19 on the outcomes of TCM hospitalizations remains relatively understudied. Thus, our objective was to investigate the impact of COVID-19 (COVID) on the outcomes of individuals hospitalized with TCM. Methods: The 2019-2020 National Inpatient Sample (NIS) was analyzed to identify adult hospitalizations admitted for TCM with a concurrent diagnosis of COVID-19 using International Classification of Disease 10 Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) codes. We compared baseline characteristics using T-test and Chi-square for continuous and categorical variables, respectively and multivariate regression analysis was used to adjust for potential confounders. Results: Out of the 41,324 TCM hospitalizations, 1,665 had a concurrent COVID infection. Hospitalizations with TCM and COVID had statistically significant difference in mortality (adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR) 2.30; Confidence Interval [CI] 1.2-4.5, p = 0.01), longer length of stay (LOS) 4.1 days (CI 2.8-5.5, p &lt; 0.001), and higher mean total hospital charges (THC) of $46,452 (CI 17,711-75203). Figure 1 shows the Forrest plot for multivariate analysis of in-hospital morbidities when adjusted for patient demographics, comorbidities and hospital characteristics. Conclusions: Patients hospitalized for TCM with concurrent COVID 19 infection had increased in-hospital mortality, longer LOS, higher THC and increased odds of cardiogenic shock, cardiac arrest, acute kidney injury (AKI), use of mechanical ventilation and use of vasopressor support.

Successful CAR-T cell therapy in a refractory MCL patient with bacterial, fungal and COVID-19 infection: a case report

BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the management and care of onco-hematological patients, particularly those with lymphoproliferative disorders who are at higher risk for COVID-19 associated bacterial and fungal superinfections.Case presentationWe present the successful treatment of a 44-year-old male patient with refractory mantle cell lymphoma treated with chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cell therapy, despite concurrent COVID-19 infection. The patient developed grade II cytokine release syndrome, requiring admission to the intensive care unit. The CAR-T cells expanded effectively, and the patient achieved complete metabolic remission. During the treatment course, the patient experienced complications including COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis and a co-infection with Stenotrophomonas maltophilia and the SARS-CoV-2 omicron variant. Prompt antifungal and antibacterial therapy, along with appropriate COVID-19 treatment, led to the resolution of these infections. Dexamethasone was also administered to reduce inflammation and aid hematologic recovery. Despite the presence of multiple infections, the patient achieved complete remission of lymphoma, highlighting the effectiveness of CAR-T cell therapy in this high-risk patient.ConclusionDespite the challenges posed by concurrent infections, the decision to proceed with CAR-T cell therapy in this patient proved to be successful, resulting in complete remission of lymphoma. Early initiation of supportive therapies and the use of dexamethasone contributed to the resolution of complications. This case underscores the importance of individualized decision-making and the potential benefits of CAR-T cell therapy in similar high-risk patients.

The impact of COVID on bacterial sepsis.

To identify the predictors of morbidity and mortality in matched COVID-19 positive and negative patients who were septic with Gram positive or Gram negative infections. We conducted a retrospective review, from March to October 2020, of matched septic patients at five Hackensack Meridian Health hospitals who had bacteremia with Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae or Escherichia coli with and without COVID-19. We extracted patient demographics, comorbidities and clinical outcomes data using ICD-10 codes. Bacterial isolates were compared by whole genome sequencing analysis. Multivariate logistic regression was used to analyze independent predictors of morbidity and mortality. A total of 208 patients were grouped by positive bloodstream infection (BSI) with COVID-19 (n = 104) and without COVID-19 (n = 104). Most patients were over age 50 (90% vs. 89%) and Caucasian (78% vs. 86%). Inpatient mortality was higher in patients with COVID-19 for both GP (35% vs. 8%, p < 0.05) and GN (28% vs. 10%, p < 0.05) BSIs. Patients with Gram positive (GP) BSIs had a significant increase in mortality risk (OR 4.5, CI 1.4-14.5, p < 0.05) in contrast to those with Gram negative (GN) infections (OR 0.4, CI 0.4-4.0, p = 0.4). Concurrent COVID-19 infection is associated with a significant increase in morbidity and mortality in patients with GP and GN BSIs. Patients with S. aureus BSIs with COVID-19 are more likely to develop shock and respiratory failure and have higher rates and odds of mortality than those without COVID-19. These findings provide an essential insight into the care of these patients, especially those co-infected with Staphylococcus aureus.

Factors associated with stroke after COVID-19 vaccination: a statewide analysis.

The objective of our study was to evaluate vaccine type, COVID-19 infection, and their association with stroke soon after COVID-19 vaccination. In a retrospective cohort study, we estimated the 21-day post-vaccination incidence of stroke among the recipients of the first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. We linked the Georgia Immunization Registry with the Georgia Coverdell Acute Stroke Registry and the Georgia State Electronic Notifiable Disease Surveillance System data to assess the relative risk of stroke by the vaccine type. Approximately 5 million adult Georgians received at least one COVID-19 vaccine between 1 December 2020 and 28 February 2022: 54% received BNT162b2, 41% received mRNA-1273, and 5% received Ad26.COV2.S. Those with concurrent COVID-19 infection within 21 days post-vaccination had an increased risk of ischemic (OR = 8.00, 95% CI: 4.18, 15.31) and hemorrhagic stroke (OR = 5.23, 95% CI: 1.11, 24.64) with no evidence for interaction between the vaccine type and concurrent COVID-19 infection. The 21-day post-vaccination incidence of ischemic stroke was 8.14, 11.14, and 10.48 per 100,000 for BNT162b2, mRNA-1273, and Ad26.COV2.S recipients, respectively. After adjusting for age, race, gender, and COVID-19 infection status, there was a 57% higher risk (OR = 1.57, 95% CI: 1.02, 2.42) for ischemic stroke within 21 days of vaccination associated with the Ad26.COV2.S vaccine compared to BNT162b2; there was no difference in stroke risk between mRNA-1273 and BNT162b2. Concurrent COVID-19 infection had the strongest association with early ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke after the first dose of COVID-19 vaccination. Although not all determinants of stroke, particularly comorbidities, were considered in this analysis, the Ad26.COV2.S vaccine was associated with a higher risk of early post-vaccination ischemic stroke than BNT162b2.

Thrombus Burden and Outcomes in Patients With COVID-19 Presenting With STEMI Across the Pandemic

BackgroundIt has been previously reported during the first COVID-19 outbreak that patients presenting with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and concurrent COVID-19 infection have increased thrombus burden and poorer outcomes. To date, there have been no reports comparing the outcomes of COVID-19–positive STEMI patients across all waves of the pandemic. ObjectivesThis study compared the baseline demographic, procedural, and angiographic characteristics alongside the clinical outcomes of patients presenting with STEMI and concurrent COVID-19 infection across the COVID-19 pandemic in the United Kingdom. MethodsThis was a single-center, observational study of 1,269 consecutive patients admitted with confirmed STEMI treated with percutaneous coronary intervention (between January 3, 2020 and October 3, 2022). COVID-19–positive patients were split into 3 groups based upon the time course of the pandemic, and a comparison was made between waves. ResultsA total of 154 COVID-19–positive patients with STEMI were included in the present analysis and were compared with 1,115 COVID-19–negative patients. Early during the pandemic (wave 1), STEMI patients presenting with concurrent COVID-19 infection had high rates of cardiac arrest, evidence of increased thrombus burden, bigger infarcts, and worse outcomes. However, by wave 3, no differences existed in outcomes between COVID-19–positive and –negative patients, with significant differences compared with earlier COVID-19–positive patients. Poor outcomes later in the study period were predominantly in unvaccinated individuals. ConclusionsSignificant changes have occurred in the clinical characteristics, angiographic features, and outcomes of STEMI patients with COVID-19 infection treated by primary percutaneous coronary intervention during the course of the pandemic. Importantly, outcomes of recent waves and in vaccinated individuals are no different to a non–COVID-19 population.

Outcomes in patients with large vessel occlusion strokes undergoing mechanical thrombectomy with concurrent COVID-19: a nationwide retrospective analysis

BackgroundPreliminary studies show that patients with large vessel occlusion (LVO) acute ischemic strokes have worse outcomes with concurrent COVID-19 infection. We investigated the outcomes for patients with LVO strokes undergoing...

C-11 | Outcomes Among Patients With Aortic Stenosis and Concurrent COVID-19 Infection

C-11 | Outcomes Among Patients With Aortic Stenosis and Concurrent COVID-19 Infection

A-34 | Utilization of Thrombolytics for STEMI During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted patients and healthcare systems worldwide, shifting practices on how acute STEMI was managed. Several studies have shown that total rates of hospital admissions for STEMI and PCI decreased during the pandemic compared to years prior. We investigated the use of thrombolytics for patients admitted for STEMI during first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. We identified all patients hospitalized for STEMI in 2020 using the National Inpatient Sample (NIS), identifying those with and without concurrent COVID-19 and who received thrombolytics. Logistic and linear regression was used for analyses of associations, with adjustment for potential confounders. We defined significance as a 2-tailed p-value of 0.05. There were 159,890 hospitalizations for STEMI in 2020, of which 1,475 recieved thrombolytics. Rates of thrombolytic usage for STEMI increased dramatically following declaration by the World Health Organization of COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020. (Figure 1) After adjusting for age, race, sex, hospital bed size, hospital location, hospital teaching status, insurance status, income level, and Elixhauser comorbidities; we found that patients with STEMI and concurrent COVID-19 infection were more likely to receive thrombolytic therapy (aOR 2.78, 95% CI 1.46 – 5.28) than patients without COVID-19. Our study found that patients admitted with STEMI and concurrent COVID-19 had significantly higher rates of thrombolytic usage than those without COVID-19. Further studies are needed to investigate the effect of COVID-19 on the outcomes of patients admitted for STEMI.

Periocular necrotising fasciitis after traumatic laceration and concurrent COVID-19 infection: a case report

Periocular necrotising fasciitis after traumatic laceration and concurrent COVID-19 infection: a case report

EFFECTS OF SARS COVID-19 POSITIVITY STATUS ON VENOUS THROMBOSIS AND PULMONARY EMBOLISM RATES IN TRAUMA PATIENTS.

Introduction : COVID-19-induced coagulopathy (CIC) can increase the risk of thromboembolism without underlying clotting disorders, even when compared with other respiratory viruses. Trauma has a known association with hypercoagulability. Trauma patients with concurrent COVID-19 infection potentially have an even greater risk of thrombotic events. The purpose of this study was to evaluate venous thromboembolism (VTE) rates in trauma patients with COVID-19. Methods : This study reviewed all adult patients (≥18 years of age) admitted to the Trauma Service from April through November 2020 for a minimum of 48 hours. Patients were grouped based off COVID-19 status and compared for inpatient VTE chemoprophylaxis regimen, thrombotic complications defined as deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, myocardial infarction, and cerebrovascular accident, intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay, hospital length of stay, and mortality. Results : A total of 2,907 patients were reviewed and grouped into COVID-19-positive (n = 110) and COVID-19-negative (n = 2,797) groups. There was no difference in terms of receiving deep vein thrombosis chemoprophylaxis or type, but a longer time to initiation in the positive group ( P = 0.0012). VTE occurred in 5 (4.55%) positive and 60 (2.15%) negative patients without a significant difference between the groups, as well as no difference in type of VTE observed. Mortality was higher ( P = 0.009) in the positive group (10.91%). Positive patients had longer median ICU LOS ( P = 0.0012) and total LOS ( P < 0.001). Conclusion : There were no increased rates of VTE complications between COVID-19-positive and -negative trauma patients, despite a longer time to initiation of chemoprophylaxis in the COVID-19-positive group. COVID-19-positive patients had increased ICU LOS, total LOS, and mortality, which are likely due to multifactorial causes but primarily related to their underlying COVID-19 infection.

Initial clinical presentation of multiple sclerosis with concurrent COVID-19 infection: Case report and literature review.

The Article Abstract is not available.

The impact of COVID-19 on clinical outcomes of burn patients

Abstract Background Multiple studies have shown the SARS-CoV-2 virus (COVID-19) to be associated with deleterious outcomes in a wide range of patients. The impact of COVID-19 has not been well investigated among burned patients. We suspect that patients will have worsened respiratory and thrombotic complications, ultimately leading to increased mortality. The objective of this study is to determine the impact a concurrent infection of COVID-19 has on clinical outcomes after a burn injury. Methods This is a retrospective, propensity matched, cohort study. We examined a de-identified database of electronic medical records of over 75 million patients across 75 health care associations in the United States for patients treated for thermal burns from 1 January 2020, to 31 July 2021, and those who also were diagnosed with COVID-19 infection within one day before or after injury based on International Classification of Disease, tenth revision (ICD-10) codes. Study participants included adults who were treated for a burn injury during the study period. Results We included 736 patients with burn injury and concomitant COVID-19 infection matched to 736 patients with burn injury and no concurrent COVID-19 infection (total 1472 patients, mean age 36.3 ± 24.3). We found no significant increase in mortality observed for patients with concurrent COVID-19 (OR 1.203, 95% CI 0.517–2.803; p = 0.6675). We did observe significant increase in infections (OR 3.537, 95% CI 2.798–4.471; p = 0.0001), thrombotic complications (OR 2.342, 95% CI 1.351–4.058; p = 0.0018), as was the incidence of hypertrophic scarring (OR 3.368, 95% CI 2.326–4.877; p = 0.0001). Conclusions We observed that concurrent COVID-19 infection was associated with an increase in infections, thrombosis and hypertrophic scarring but no increase in mortality in our cohort of burn patients.

241 LEFT ATRIAL SEPTAL POUCH THROMBOSIS AFTER COVID19 INFECTION: IS IMMUNOTHROMBOSIS THE CULPRIT MECHANISM?

Abstract Aims The atrial septal pouch (ASP) is an incomplete fusion between septum primum (SP) and septum secundum (SS), resulting in a kangaroo pouch, that has a high prevalence in general populations (47%) and it is a potential site of blood stasis and thrombosis. After the novel coronavirus disease (COVID19) -related thrombotic complications, immunothrombosis has been widely investigated and proposed as key pathogenic mechanism linking coagulation and inflammation, leading sometimes to intracardiac thrombosis. In this paper we describe a case of thrombus in the ASP interestingly developed after COVID19 and made a literature review. Methods and Results A 85 years old woman with a history of hypertension and chronic atrial fibrillation (AF) in therapy with dabigatran, was admitted to our hospital for dyspnea, atypical chest pain and fever. Laboratory exams showed only mild leukocytosis and elevated levels of d-dimer; EKG confirmed AF with a normal ventricular rate and CT scan excluded pulmonary embolism. Transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) (Figure 1) showed a mobile ovoid mass (13×26 mm) attached to a left-sided ASP mimicking a myxoma, no mass was seen in the left atrial appendage (LAA). Four months earlier she had been hospitalized for idiopathic thrombocytopenia and concurrent COVID19 infection with mild symptoms, therefore dabigatran was discontinued for a month. The patient underwent surgery and histopathology confirmed it was a thrombus. In the PubMed search we conducted for reports demonstrating ASP masses, or alleged thromboembolism (TE) from this site, we found 25 reports, whose characteristics are briefly summarized in Table 1. Interestingly mild thrombocytopenia was described just in one case. Conclusions In addition to the LAA, the atrial septal pouch is a newly described, common anatomic entity of the interatrial septum, that potentially serves as a site of stasis and thrombus formation. Despite its high prevalence, the finding of a thrombus in this site is very rare. According to Virchow triad, we assume that in this case an endothelial injury and hypercoagulability could have played a pivotal role, since the concomitant thrombocytopenia and high levels of d-dimer. This could be the first case of a thrombus in the ASP associated with COVID19-immunothrombosis.