Diabetes patients with COVID-19 need better blood glucose management in Wuhan, China

Assessment of the quality of life of COVID-19 recovered patients at the Ghana Infectious Disease Centre

BACKGROUND

The Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19), initially thought to be a respiratory disease, is now known to affect multiple organ systems with variable presentation and devastating or fatal complications. Despite the large numbers of people who have suffered this disease globally, the mid- to long-term impact of COVID-19 on a person's general well-being and physical function has not been fully investigated in Ghana.

AIM

This study sought to determine the Quality of Life (QoL) and associated factors among Ghanaian patients following clinical recovery from COVID-19 infection.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional quantitative study involving 150 COVID-19 recovered patients attending the review clinic of the Ghana Infectious Disease Centre. Quality of life was estimated using the EuroQol Group Association five-domain, five-level questionnaire (EQ-5D-5L) while participants' overall health status was measured on a visual analogue scale (EQ-VAS): a scale ranging from 0 (worst health) to 100 (best health). Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to assess differences in domain and overall QoL scores while quantile regression was used to determine demographic and clinical factors associated with QoL scores.

RESULTS

The mean QoL from the EQ-5D-5L assessment tool was (81.5 ± 12.0) %, while the self-reported QoL from the EQ-VAS tool (75.6 ± 22.0) %. Persistence of symptoms after 30 days was significantly associated with EQ-5D-5L QoL (Adjusted median difference [95% CI] = -9.40 [-14.19, -4.61], p<0.001) while access to rehabilitative centres was significantly associated with EQ-VAS QoL (Adjusted median difference [95% CI] = -29.60 [-48.92, -10.29], p = 0.003).

CONCLUSION

Quality of life was relatively good among the COVID-19 recovered patients. Persistence of symptoms and access to rehabilitative centres significantly predicted one's QoL.

Role of renin-angiotensin system/angiotensin converting enzyme-2 mechanism and enhanced COVID-19 susceptibility in type 2 diabetes mellitus

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a disease that caused a global pandemic and is caused by infection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 virus. It has affected over 768 million people worldwide, resulting in approximately 6900000 deaths. High-risk groups, identified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, include individuals with conditions like type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), obesity, chronic lung disease, serious heart conditions, and chronic kidney disease. Research indicates that those with T2DM face a heightened susceptibility to COVID-19 and increased mortality compared to non-diabetic individuals. Examining the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), a vital regulator of blood pressure and pulmonary stability, reveals the significance of the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and ACE2 enzymes. ACE converts angiotensin-I to the vasoconstrictor angiotensin-II, while ACE2 counters this by converting angiotensin-II to angiotensin 1-7, a vasodilator. Reduced ACE2 expression, common in diabetes, intensifies RAS activity, contributing to conditions like inflammation and fibrosis. Although ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers can be therapeutically beneficial by increasing ACE2 levels, concerns arise regarding the potential elevation of ACE2 receptors on cell membranes, potentially facilitating COVID-19 entry. This review explored the role of the RAS/ACE2 mechanism in amplifying severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection and associated complications in T2DM. Potential treatment strategies, including recombinant human ACE2 therapy, broad-spectrum antiviral drugs, and epigenetic signature detection, are discussed as promising avenues in the battle against this pandemic.

A Critical Review on the Long-Term COVID-19 Impacts on Patients With Diabetes

BACKGROUND

The world is currently grappling with the potentially life-threatening coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), marking it as the most severe health crisis in the modern era. COVID-19 has led to a pandemic, with the World Health Organization (WHO) predicting that individuals with diabetes are at a higher risk of contracting the virus compared to the general population. This review aims to provide a practical summary of the long-term impacts of COVID-19 on patients with diabetes. Specifically, it focuses on the effects of SARS-CoV-2 on different types of diabetic patients, the associated mortality rate, the underlying mechanisms, related complications, and the role of vitamin D and zinc in therapeutic and preventive approaches.

METHODS

Relevant literature was identified through searches on PubMed, Web of Science, and Science Direct in English, up to April 2023.

RESULTS

COVID-19 can lead to distressing symptoms and pose a significant challenge for individuals living with diabetes. Older individuals and those with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, coronary illness, and asthma are more susceptible to COVID-19 infection. Managing COVID-19 in individuals with diabetes presents challenges, as it not only complicates the fight against the infection but also potentially prolongs the recovery time. Moreover, the virus may thrive in individuals with high blood glucose levels. Various therapeutic approaches, including antidiabetic drugs, are available to help prevent COVID-19 in diabetic patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Diabetes increases the morbidity and mortality risk for patients with COVID-19. Efforts are globally underway to explore therapeutic interventions aimed at reducing the impact of diabetes on COVID-19.

Identifying diseases associated with Post-COVID syndrome through an integrated network biology approach

A growing body of research shows that COVID-19 is now recognized as a multi-organ disease with a wide range of manifestations that can have long-lasting repercussions, referred to as post-COVID-19 syndrome. It is unknown why the vast majority of COVID-19 patients develop post-COVID-19 syndrome, or why patients with pre-existing disorders are more likely to experience severe COVID-19. This study used an integrated network biology approach to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between COVID-19 and other disorders. The approach involved building a PPI network with COVID-19 genes and identifying highly interconnected regions. The molecular information contained within these subnetworks, as well as the pathway annotations, were used to reveal the link between COVID-19 and other disorders. Using Fisher's exact test and disease-specific gene information, significant COVID-19-disease associations were discovered. The study discovered diseases that affect multiple organs and organ systems, thus proving the theory of multiple organ damage caused by COVID-19. Cancers, neurological disorders, hepatic diseases, cardiac disorders, pulmonary diseases, and hypertensive diseases are just a few of the conditions linked to COVID-19. Pathway enrichment analysis of shared proteins revealed the shared molecular mechanism of COVID-19 and these diseases. The findings of the study shed new light on the major COVID-19-associated disease conditions and how their molecular mechanisms interact with COVID-19. The novelty of studying disease associations in the context of COVID-19 provides new insights into the management of rapidly evolving long-COVID and post-COVID syndromes, which have significant global implications.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Glycemic variability and time in range among children with type 1 diabetes on insulin pump during the Covid-19 pandemic in Egypt; single center experience

BACKGROUND

Covid-19 has impacted the lives of individuals worldwide especially those with chronic illnesses. Children with type 1 diabetes (T1DM) are at risk of glycemic deterioration during the Covid-19 pandemic. However, some studies reported glycemic improvement in these children during the pandemic.

AIM

To assess the impact of Covid-19 on glycemic control and acute complications among children with T1DM on insulin pump in Egypt.

METHODOLOGY

Forty-two children with T1DM on insulin pump for at least 1 year were assessed during the period from June 2020 to May 2021 for insulin requirements, insulin-pump problems, frequency of diabetic-ketoacidosis (DKA), hypoglycemia and HbA1C. Continuous-glucose monitoring was done using Medtronic i-pro device for 5 days. Data were compared to those obtained from the patients' medical records 1 year previously.

RESULT

Upon comparing data during Covid-19 pandemic with previous data from 12-24 months before Covid-19, there was a significant small increase in the mean total daily insulin dose from 0.83 ± 0.28 to 0.88 ± 0.30 U/kg/day with a similar small increase in the mean basal percentage from 51.19 ± 3.46 to 52.74 ± 4.31. Interestingly, the median time in range showed small increase from 53 (IQR 47-61) to 57.0 (IQR 51-73), the mean coefficient of variation showed small decrease from 42.10 ± 9.90 to 38.20 ± 8.12 and the mean HbA1C significantly decreased from 8.8 ± 1.3 (72.31 ± 16.78 mmol/ml) to 7.8 ± 1.2 mg/dl (61.31 ± 16.62 mmol/mol). Twenty-nine children (69%) had insulin-pump problems in the form of skin irritation (31%), skin infection (7.1%) and pump Set/Site occlusion (31%).

CONCLUSION

No safety issues and overall glycemic improvement were reported among the children with T1DM on insulin pump therapy from this single center during the covid-19 pandemic.

Glycemic Control in Critically Ill COVID-19 Patients: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: Given the mortality risk in COVID-19 patients, it is necessary to estimate the impact of glycemic control on mortality rates among inpatients by designing and implementing evidence-based blood glucose (BG) control methods. There is evidence to suggest that COVID-19 patients with hyperglycemia are at risk of mortality, and glycemic control may improve outcomes. However, the optimal target range of blood glucose levels in critically ill COVID-19 patients remains unclear, and further research is needed to establish the most effective glycemic control strategies in this population. Methods: The investigation was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Data sources were drawn from Google Scholar, ResearchGate, PubMed (MEDLINE), Cochrane Library, and Embase databases. Randomized controlled trials, non-randomized controlled trials, retrospective cohort studies, and observational studies with comparison groups specific to tight glycemic control in COVID-19 patients with and without diabetes. Results: Eleven observational studies (26,953 patients hospitalized for COVID-19) were included. The incidence of death was significantly higher among COVID-19 patients diagnosed with diabetes than those without diabetes (OR = 2.70 [2.11, 3.45] at a 95% confidence interval). Incidences of death (OR of 3.76 (3.00, 4.72) at a 95% confidence interval) and complications (OR of 0.88 [0.76, 1.02] at a 95% confidence interval) were also significantly higher for COVID-19 patients with poor glycemic control. Conclusion: These findings suggest that poor glycemic control in critically ill patients leads to an increased mortality rate, infection rate, mechanical ventilation, and prolonged hospitalization.

Pulmonary recovery from COVID-19 in patients with metabolic diseases: a longitudinal prospective cohort study

The severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is related to the presence of comorbidities including metabolic diseases. We herein present data from the longitudinal prospective CovILD trial, and investigate the recovery from COVID-19 in individuals with dysglycemia and dyslipidemia. A total of 145 COVID-19 patients were prospectively followed and a comprehensive clinical, laboratory and imaging assessment was performed at 60, 100, 180, and 360 days after the onset of COVID-19. The severity of acute COVID-19 and outcome at early post-acute follow-up were significantly related to the presence of dysglycemia and dyslipidemia. Still, at long-term follow-up, metabolic disorders were not associated with an adverse pulmonary outcome, as reflected by a good recovery of structural lung abnormalities in both, patients with and without metabolic diseases. To conclude, dyslipidemia and dysglycemia are associated with a more severe course of acute COVID-19 as well as delayed early recovery but do not impair long-term pulmonary recovery.

Correlates of In-Hospital COVID-19 Deaths: A Competing Risks Survival Time Analysis of Retrospective Mortality Data

INTRODUCTION

Several aspects of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic remain ambiguous, including its transmission, severity, geographic, and racial differences in mortality. These variations merit elaboration of local patterns to inform wider national policies.

METHODS

In a retrospective analysis, data of patients treated at a dedicated COVID hospital with moderate and severe illness during 8 wk of the pandemic were reviewed with attention to mortality in a competing risks framework.

RESULTS

A total of 1147 patients were hospitalized, and 312 (27.2%) died in hospital. Those who died were older (56.5 vs 47.6 y; P < 0.0001). Of these, 885 (77.2%) had tested positive on reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), with 219 (24.2%) deaths (incidence rate, 1.9 per 100 person-days). Median time from onset of symptoms to death was 11 days. A competing risks analysis for in-hospital death revealed an adjusted cause-specific hazard ratio of 1.4 for each decade increase in age.

CONCLUSIONS

This retrospective analysis provides broad patterns of disease presentation and mortality. Even COVID test-negative patients will receive treatment at dedicated facilities, and 33% presenting cases may die within the first 72 h, most with comorbid illness. This should be considered while planning distribution of services for effective health-care delivery.

Telemedicine management of type 2 diabetes mellitus in obese and overweight young and middle-aged patients during COVID-19 outbreak: A single-center, prospective, randomized control study

Objective

The coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic severely affected the disease management of patients with chronic illnesses such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This study aimed to assess the effect of telemedicine management of diabetes in obese and overweight young and middle-aged patients with T2DM during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

A single-center randomized control study was conducted in 120 obese or overweight (body mass index [BMI] ≥ 24 kg/m2) young and middle-aged patients (aged 18–55 years) with T2DM. Patients were randomly assigned to the intervention (telemedicine) or control (conventional outpatient clinic appointment) group. After baseline assessment, they were home isolated for 21 days, received diet and exercise guidance, underwent glucose monitoring, and followed up for 6 months. Glucose monitoring and Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS) scores were evaluated at 22 days and at the end of 3 and 6 months.

Results

Ninety-nine patients completed the 6-month follow-up (intervention group: n = 52; control group: n = 47). On day 22, the fasting blood glucose (FBG) level of the intervention group was lower than that of the control group (p < 0.05), and the control group’s SDS increased significantly compared with the baseline value (p < 0.05). At the end of 3 months, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and FBG levels in the intervention group decreased significantly compared with those in the control group (p < 0.01). At the end of 6 months, the intervention group showed a significant decrease in postprandial blood glucose, triglyceride, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels as well as waist-to-hip ratio compared with the control group (p < 0.05); moreover, the intervention group showed lower SDS scores than the baseline value (p < 0.05). Further, the intervention group showed a significant reduction in BMI compared with the control group at the end of 3 and 6 months (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Telemedicine is a beneficial strategy for achieving remotely supervised blood glucose regulation, weight loss, and depression relief in patients with T2DM.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04723550.

Mechanisms of COVID-19 Pathogenesis in Diabetes

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus, is a global pandemic impacting 254 million people in 190 countries. Comorbidities, particularly cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and hypertension, increase the risk of infection and poor outcomes. SARS-CoV-2 enters host cells through the angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 receptor, generating inflammation and cytokine storm, often resulting in multiorgan failure. The mechanisms and effects of COVID-19 on patients with high-risk diabetes are not yet completely understood. In this review, we discuss the variety of coronaviruses, structure of SARS-CoV-2, mutations in SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins, receptors associated with viral host entry, and disease progression. Furthermore, we focus on possible mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 in diabetes, leading to inflammation and heart failure. Finally, we discuss existing therapeutic approaches, unanswered questions, and future directions.

Adherence to physical exercise recommendations among type 2 diabetes patients during the COVID-19 pandemic

Background

In the era of the COVID-19 pandemic, nonadherence to the recommended physical exercise for diabetic patients is a difficult issue. Regular physical exercise is critical for reducing further complications of diabetes mellitus and the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of this study was to determine the predictors of type 2 adult diabetes patients’ exercise recommendations during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 576 diabetes mellitus patients from August 1, 2020, to September 28, 2020. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select the study participants. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect the data. Frequency tables and percentages were used to explain the study variables. A binary logistic regression was used to investigate the relationship between the dependent and independent variables.

Result

A total of 576 diabetes mellitus patients participated in the study, with a response rate of 99.3%. The overall prevalence of exercise adherence was 26.4%, whereas 73.6% were non-adherents to exercise recommendations. Rural residency (AOR = 1.95, 95% CI: 1.16–3.27) and COVID-19 related knowledge (AOR = 9.95, 95% CI: 41.14–5.24) were both strongly associated with exercise recommendations.

Conclusion

In this study, only one-fourth of patients had exercised adherence during the era of the COVID-19 pandemic. Knowledge about COVID-19 was one of the factors that was strongly associated with adherence to exercise recommendations for diabetes patients. During the COVID-19 pandemic, encouraging home-based exercises can improve adherence to exercise recommendations.

Association of blood glucose level and prognosis of inpatients with coexistent diabetes and COVID-19

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) increases the risk of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). This study investigates the association between glucose control of COVID-19 patients with T2D in first 7 days after hospital admission and prognosis. A total of 252 infected inpatients with T2D in China were included. Well-controlled blood glucose was defined as stable fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels in the range of 3.9-7.8 mmol/L during first 7 days using indicators of average (FBG_A), maximum (FBG_M) or first-time (FBG₁) FBG levels. The primary endpoint was admission to intensive care unit or death. Hazard ratio (HR) of poorly controlled glucose level group compared with well-controlled group were 4.96 (P = 0.021) for FBG_M and 5.55 (P = 0.014) for FBG_A. Well-controlled blood glucose levels in first 7 days could improve the prognosis of COVID-19 inpatients with diabetes.

Association of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Outbreak on the Diabetes Self-Management in Chinese Patients: An Analytical Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak has seriously affected people's lives, especially those with chronic diseases. Diabetes self-management, which plays an important role in glycaemic control and reducing the risk of acute and long-term complications, may be discouraged by social distancing.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the level of self-management activities in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) during the COVID-19 pandemic.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A survey of with 872 patients with T2DM in the inpatient and outpatient departments through face-to-face interviews was conducted from 1 July, 2020 to 30 September, 2020. The main outcome measures were glycaemic control status and level of self-management activities during the pandemic.

RESULTS

In terms of glycaemic control, the data showed that patients with fasting plasma glucose (FPG) < 7.0 mmol/L (36.4%), postprandial plasma glucose (PPG) < 10.0 mmol/L (26.3%), or glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) < 7.0% (18.6%) in our investigation has well-controlled blood glucose level, and 11.9% of patients experienced blood glucose <3.9 mmol/L during the outbreak. The diabetes self-management of Chinese patients decreased and the final diabetes self-management score of the Chinese patients was 3.4 ± 1.45. Patients with higher education, diabetes education, comorbidities, and online consultations had higher diabetes self-management scores (P <0.05). Adherence to diabetes self-management in the normal glycaemic control group was higher than that in the substandard glycaemic control group (P<0.05). Among all participants, 72.1% of the patients reduced the frequency of hospital visits, and 44.8% considered that they had diabetes-related stress during the pandemic. The mean anxiety level score rated by 286 patients was 5.3±2.8.

CONCLUSION

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected diabetes self-management, including substandard glycemic control, increased diabetes-related stress, limited exercise range and medical visits. Therefore, future interventions should focus on the online management of chronic diseases and support online consultation' development and promotion, which can overcome physical distance and provide personalized services conveniently.

The outcomes of patients with diabetes mellitus in The Philippine CORONA Study

Patients diagnosed with diabetes mellitus (DM) who are infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2) belong to the most vulnerable patient subgroups. Emerging data has shown increased risks of severe infections, increased in ICU admissions, longer durations of admission, and increased mortality among coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients with diabetes. We performed a subgroup analysis comparing the outcomes of patients diagnosed with DM (n = 2191) versus patients without DM (n = 8690) on our data from our study based on a nationwide, comparative, retrospective, cohort study among adult, hospitalized COVID-19 patients involving 37 hospital sites from around the Philippines. We determined distribution differences between two independent samples using Mann-Whitney U and t tests. Data on the time to onset of mortality, respiratory failure, intensive care unit (ICU) admission were used to build Kaplan-Meier curves and to compute for hazard ratios (HR). The odds ratios (OR) for longer ventilator dependence, longer ICU stay, and longer hospital stays were computed via multivariate logistic regression. Adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) and ORs (aOR) with 95% CI were calculated. We included a total of 10,881 patients with confirmed COVID-19 infection (2191 have DM while 8690 did not have DM). The median age of the DM cohort was 61, with a female to male ratio of 1:1.25 and more than 50% of the DM population were above 60 years old. The aOR for mortality was significantly higher among those in the DM group by 1.46 (95% CI 1.28-1.68; p < 0.001) as compared to the non-DM group. Similarly, the aOR for respiratory failure was also significantly higher among those in the DM group by 1.67 (95% CI 1.46-1.90). The aOR for developing severe COVID-19 at nadir was significantly higher among those in the DM group by 1.85 (95% CI 1.65-2.07; p < 0.001). The aOR for ICU admission was significantly higher among those in the DM group by 1.80 (95% CI 1.59-2.05) than those in the non-DM group. DM patients had significantly longer duration of ventilator dependence (aOR 1.33, 95% CI 1.08-1.64; p = 0.008) and longer hospital admission (aOR 1.13, 95% CI 1.01-1.26; p = 0.027). The presence of DM among COVID-19 patients significantly increased the risk of mortality, respiratory failure, duration of ventilator dependence, severe/critical COVID-19, ICU admission, and length of hospital stay.

Social Distancing, Physical Activity, and COVID-19: Implications for Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus in Brazil

A lack of glycemic control and diabetes are risk factors for complications related to COVID-19, and social isolation can hinder adherence to physical activity. Thus, this study sought to assess the impacts of social distancing on the practice of physical activity of individuals with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). This was a transversal study carried out using an online form to collect sociodemographic, practice of physical activity, and social distancing data. Of the 472 participants, 85.6% reported that they were respecting the steps of social distancing. Social distancing affected the practice of physical activity in adherence to the habit of practicing in frequency, duration, and perception of change in intensity. An association was found between noticing a lot of stress in the home environment and stopping physical activity; lower levels of tolerance to social distancing were associated with less physical activity, and maintaining the habit of practicing physical activity was associated with decreasing the intensity of the practice. Hence, social distancing harmed the practice of physical activity as part of the treatment of individuals with T1DM, both in the habit of practicing and in the characteristics of these practices of physical activity, such as frequency, duration, and intensity.

Impacts of diabetes mellitus on clinical and para-clinical parameters among COVID-19 patients

PURPOSE

Diabetes has several adverse effects on patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19); however, the determinants of this effect are still poorly understood. It is tried in current study to evaluate impacts of type 2 diabetes, with and without other comorbidities, on the clinical, para-clinical, and outcome parameters among COVID-19 patients.

METHODS

A case series was applied, which involved 406 COVID-19 patients admitted in the city of Shiraz, south-central Iran, from February 20 to April 29, 2020. Demographic data, medical history, laboratory finding, chest computed tomography (CT) scan reports, and clinical outcomes of patients with and without type 2 diabetes were compared.

RESULTS

Results of the above-mentioned comparison showed that comorbidities such as HTN (35.5% vs. 13.7%, p < 0.001) and CVDs (26.2% vs. 13.4%, P = 0.002) were significantly more prevalent among the diabetic patients. Also, there was not any considerable difference between the chest CT severity parameters of both groups. After excluding all of the comorbidities except diabetes, it was found that the diabetic COVID-19 patients without other comorbidities had lower oxygen saturation level (P < 0.001), higher AST level (P = 0.037), higher BUN (P = 0.005), higher WBC counts (P = 0.025), lower lymphocyte counts (P = 0.029), and longer ICU admission duration (0.72 ± 2.83 vs. 1.71 ± 4.68, P = 0.046).

CONCLUSION

The diabetic COVID patients are at higher risks of hypoxemia, longer ICU stays, and more renal and hepatic dysfunction. These achievements could be useful in order to prevent the deterioration of clinical conditions among diabetic COVID-19 patients; also, they have to be considered in the management strategies.

Association between hyperglycemia treatment and mortality in patients with diabetes and COVID-19 in a Peruvian hospital: A retrospective cohort study

•

Very limited information about inpatient glycemic control or anti-hyperglycemic treatment strategies is available from low- and middle-income countries, such as Peru.

•

We observed a high mortality (39,1%) among patients with diabetes and COVID-19 in a Peruvian hospital. After admission, sliding scale insulin therapy was the most common treatment approach for hospitalized patients with diabetes and COVID-19.

•

Early and continuous use of sliding scale insulin alone was associated with higher mortality compared to fixed-dose insulin regimens.

•

In the context of COVID-19 pandemic, the use of the sliding scale insulin alone is frequent and its early and continuous use may be associated with higher in-hospital mortality, its use should be discouraged. Fixed-dose insulin is recommended, after an individualized evaluation.

Objective

To evaluate the association between hyperglycemia treatment and mortality in patients with diabetes and COVID-19 in a Peruvian hospital.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted between March and July 2020. Individual-level data were extracted from an implemented virtual platform. We included patients with type 2 diabetes hospitalized with COVID-19. The assessed outcome was in-hospital mortality. The Independent variable of interest was hyperglycemic treatment. We used Poisson regressions with robust variance to obtain crude and adjusted relative risks (RR) and their 95% confidence intervals (95% CI).

Results

Out of 1635 patients hospitalized for COVID-19 during the study period, 248 patients with diabetes mellitus were included. The majority were men (66.9%), the median age was 62 years. Ninety-seven patients died in the hospital (39.1%). The median glycemia on admission was 222.5 mg/dL. At 48 h after hospital admission, 125 patients (50.4%) received sliding scale insulin alone (SSI), 46 (18.5%) received a fixed-dose insulin regimen. In the adjusted analysis, the group with SSI at 48 h of hospitalization had higher mortality than those with fixed-dose insulin (adjusted RR: 1.69; 95% CI: 1.01 – 2.83), and those and who continued with SSI in the following days had higher mortality compared to the group that switched to fixed-dose insulin (adjusted RR: 1.64; 95% CI: 1.17 – 2.32).

Conclusion

Among assessed patients with diabetes and COVID-19, more than a third died during hospitalization. Early and continuous use of the sliding scale was associated with higher mortality compared to fixed-dose insulin regimens.

Association between cardiometabolic risk factors and COVID-19 susceptibility, severity and mortality: a review

The novel coronavirus, which began spreading from China Wuhan and gradually spreaded to most countries, led to the announcement by the World Health Organization on March 11, 2020, as a new pandemic. The most important point presented by the World Health Organization about this disease is to better understand the risk factors that exacerbate the course of the disease and worsen its prognosis. Due to the high majority of cardio metabolic risk factors like obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia among the population over 60 years old and higher, these cardio metabolic risk factors along with the age of these people could worsen the prognosis of the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) and its mortality. In this study, we aimed to review the articles from the beginning of the pandemic on the impression of cardio metabolic risk factors on COVID-19 and the effectiveness of COVID-19 on how to manage these diseases. All the factors studied in this article, including hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, and obesity exacerbate the course of Covid-19 disease by different mechanisms, and the inflammatory process caused by coronavirus can also create a vicious cycle in controlling these diseases for patients.

COVID-19 and Diabetes: A Comprehensive Review of Angiotensin Converting Enzyme 2, Mutual Effects and Pharmacotherapy

The potential relationship between diabetes and COVID-19 has been evaluated. However, new knowledge is rapidly emerging. In this study, we systematically reviewed the relationship between viral cell surface receptors (ACE2, AXL, CD147, DC-SIGN, L-SIGN and DPP4) and SARS-CoV-2 infection risk, and emphasized the implications of ACE2 on SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 pathogenesis. Besides, we updated on the two-way interactions between diabetes and COVID-19, as well as the treatment options for COVID-19 comorbid patients from the perspective of ACE2. The efficacies of various clinical chemotherapeutic options, including anti-diabetic drugs, renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors, lipid-lowering drugs, anticoagulants, and glucocorticoids for COVID-19 positive diabetic patients were discussed. Moreover, we reviewed the significance of two different forms of ACE2 (mACE2 and sACE2) and gender on COVID-19 susceptibility and severity. This review summarizes COVID-19 pathophysiology and the best strategies for clinical management of diabetes patients with COVID-19.

COVID-19 and Diabetes

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the most common comorbid conditions in persons with COVID-19 and a risk factor for poor prognosis. The reasons why COVID-19 is more severe in persons with DM are currently unknown although the scarce data available on patients with DM hospitalized because of COVID-19 show that glycemic control is inadequate. The fact that patients with COVID-19 are usually cared for by health professionals with limited experience in the management of diabetes and the need to prevent exposure to the virus may also be obstacles to glycemic control in patients with COVID-19. Effective clinical care should consider various aspects, including screening for the disease in at-risk persons, education, and monitoring of control and complications. We examine the effect of COVID-19 on DM in terms of glycemic control and the restrictions arising from the pandemic and assess management of diabetes and drug therapy in various scenarios, taking into account factors such as physical exercise, diet, blood glucose monitoring, and pharmacological treatment. Specific attention is given to patients who have been admitted to hospital and critically ill patients. Finally, we consider the role of telemedicine in the management of DM patients with COVID-19 during the pandemic and in the future.

Importance of diabetes management during the COVID-19 pandemic

Uncontrolled diabetes and/or hyperglycemia is associated with severe COVID-19 disease and increased mortality. It is now known that poor glucose control before hospital admission can be associated with a high risk of in-hospital death. By achieving and maintaining glycemic control, primary care physicians (PCPs) play a critical role in limiting this potentially devastating outcome. Further, despite the hope that mass vaccination will help control the pandemic, genetic variants of the virus are causing surges in some countries. As such, PCPs will treat an increasing number of patients with diabetes who have symptoms of post-COVID-19 infection, or even have new-onset type 2 diabetes as a result of COVID-19 infection. However, much of the literature published focuses on the effects of COVID-19 in hospitalized patients, with few publications providing information and advice to those caring for people with diabetes in the primary care setting. This manuscript reviews the current knowledge of the risk and outcomes of individuals with diabetes who are infected with COVID-19 and provides information for PCPs on the importance of glucose control, appropriate treatment, and use of telemedicine and online prescription delivery systems to limit the potentially devastating effects of COVID-19 in people with hyperglycemia.

Increase in blood glucose level and incidence of diabetic ketoacidosis in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus in the Daegu-Gyeongbuk area during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak in the Daegu-Gyeongbuk area in 2020 has caused difficulties in the daily life and hospital care of children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). We detected an increase in blood sugar levels in these children and the number of patients hospitalized with more severe diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) compared to those before COVID-19.

Methods

This single-center study was conducted at Kyungpook National University Children’s Hospital. The following patient groups were included; 45 returning patients diagnosed with T1DM and undergoing insulin treatment for more than 2 years and 20 patients newly diagnosed with T1DM before and after COVID-19 were selected by age matching. Returning patients before and after the outbreak were selected, and changes in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels were retrospectively reviewed. The HbA1c levels and severity of symptoms in newly diagnosed patients during hospitalization were examined.

Results

HbA1c levels in returning patients with T1DM were significantly increased after COVID-19 (before, 7.70%±1.38% vs. after, 8.30%±2.05%; p=0.012). There were 10 and 10 newly diagnosed patients before and after COVID-19, respectively. The proportion of patients with drowsiness and dyspnea at the time of admission was higher after COVID-19 than before (before, 2 of 10 vs. after, 4 of 10). The HbA1c levels were higher in newly diagnosed patients hospitalized after COVID-19 than before (before, 11.15% vs. after, 13.60%; p=0.036).

Conclusion

Due to COVID-19 in the Daegu-Gyeongbuk area, there was an increase in blood glucose levels in children with T1DM and in the incidence of severe DKA in newly diagnosed diabetes mellitus patients.

Diabetes in COVID-19 pandemic-prevalence, patient characteristics and adverse outcomes

BACKGROUND

Current literature on COVID-19 pandemic has identified diabetes as a common comorbidity in patients affected. However, the evidence that diabetes increases the risk of infection, effect of diabetes on outcomes and characteristics of patients at risk is not clear.

OBJECTIVES

To explore the prevalence of diabetes in COVID-19 pandemic, effect of diabetes on clinical outcomes and to characterise the patients with diabetes affected by COVID-19.

METHODS

A literature review of articles published in English language and reported outcomes on prevalence and effect of diabetes on outcomes and patients' characteristics.

RESULTS

The prevalence of diabetes in COVID-19 patients appears similar to that in the general population. The evidence of diabetes increasing the risk of severe infection and adverse outcomes is substantial. The progression of the disease into acute respiratory distress syndrome, the requirement for intensive care admission or mechanical ventilation and mortality all have been increased by the presence of diabetes. Patients with diabetes at risk of COVID-19 appear to be obese, of older age, have uncontrolled glycaemia and have coexisting comorbidities especially cardiovascular disease and hypertension. Tight glycaemic control on admission to hospital using insulin infusion has shown some beneficial effects; however, the role of hypoglycaemic medications in the management of these patients is not yet clear.

CONCLUSION

High risk group should be identified and prioritised in future vaccination programmes. Future research is required to optimise management of patients with diabetes and develop new ways to manage them via technological developments such as telecare.

Network Topology of Biological Aging and Geroscience-Guided Approaches to COVID-19

Aging has emerged as the greatest and most prevalent risk factor for the development of severe COVID-19 infection and death following exposure to the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The presence of multiple co-existing chronic diseases and conditions of aging further enhances this risk. Biological aging not only enhances the risk of chronic diseases, but the presence of such conditions further accelerates varied biological processes or "hallmarks" implicated in aging. Given growing evidence that it is possible to slow the rate of many biological aging processes using pharmacological compounds has led to the proposal that such geroscience-guided interventions may help enhance immune resilience and improve outcomes in the face of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Our review of the literature indicates that most, if not all, hallmarks of aging may contribute to the enhanced COVID-19 vulnerability seen in frail older adults. Moreover, varied biological mechanisms implicated in aging do not function in isolation from each other, and exhibit intricate effects on each other. With all of these considerations in mind, we highlight limitations of current strategies mostly focused on individual single mechanisms, and we propose an approach which is far more multidisciplinary and systems-based emphasizing network topology of biological aging and geroscience-guided approaches to COVID-19.

The complex combination of COVID-19 and diabetes: pleiotropic changes in glucose metabolism

PURPOSE

Angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is the door for SARS-CoV-2, expressed in critical metabolic tissues. So, it is rational that the new virus causes pleiotropic alterations in glucose metabolism, resulting in the complication of pre-existing diabetes's pathophysiology or creating new disease mechanisms. However, it seems that less attention has been paid to this issue. This review aimed to highlight the importance of long-term consequences and pleiotropic alterations in glucose metabolism following COVID-19 and emphasize the need for basic and clinical research in metabolism and endocrinology.

RESULTS

SARS-CoV-2 shifts cellular metabolism from oxidative phosphorylation to glycolysis, which leads to a decrease in ATP generation. Together with metabolic imbalance, the impaired immune system elevates the susceptibility of patients with diabetes to this deadly virus. SARS-CoV-2-induced metabolic alterations in immune cells can result in hyper inflammation and a cytokine storm. Metabolic dysfunction may affect therapies against SARS-CoV-2 infection. The effective control of metabolic complications could prove useful therapeutic targets for combating COVID-19. It is also necessary to understand the long-term consequences that will affect patients with diabetes who survived COVID-19.

CONCLUSIONS

Since the pathophysiology of COVID-19 is still mostly unknown, identifying the metabolic mechanisms contributing to its progression is essential to provide specific ways to prevent and improve this dangerous virus's detrimental effects. The findings show that the new virus may induce new-onset diabetes with uncertain metabolic and clinical features, supporting a potential role of COVID-19 in the development of diabetes.

Review of potential risk groups for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)

The current pandemic of coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) is a global issue caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Studies have revealed that this virus results in poorer consequences and a higher rate of mortality in older adults and those with comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes and prolonged respiratory illness. In this review, we discuss in detail the potential groups at risk of COVID-19 and outline future recommendations to mitigate community transmission of COVID-19. The rate of COVID-19 was high in healthcare workers, smokers, older adults, travellers and pregnant women. Furthermore, patients with severe medical complications such as heart disease, hypertension, respiratory illness, diabetes mellitus and cancer are at higher risk of disease severity and mortality. Therefore, special effort and devotion are needed to diminish the threat of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Proper vaccination, use of sanitizers for handwashing and complete lockdown are recommended to mitigate the chain of COVID-19 transmission.

Coronavirus disease 2019 severity in obesity: Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease in the spotlight

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak has drawn the scientific community's attention to pre-existing metabolic conditions that could aggravate the infection, causing extended viral shedding, prolonged hospitalization, and high death rates. Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) emerges as a surrogate for COVID-19 severity due to the constellation of metabolic alterations it entails. This review outlines the impact MAFLD exerts on COVID-19 severity in obese subjects, besides the possible mechanistic links to the poor outcomes. The data collected showed that MAFLD patients had poorer COVID-19 outcomes than non-MAFLD obese subjects. MAFLD is generally accompanied by impaired glycemic control and systemic arterial hypertension, both of which can decompensate during the COVID-19 clinical course. Also, MAFLD subjects had higher plasma inflammatory marker concentrations than non-MAFLD subjects, which might be related to an intensified cytokine storm syndrome frequently associated with the need for mechanical ventilation and death. In conclusion, MAFLD represents a higher risk than obesity for COVID-19 severity, resulting in poor outcomes and even progression to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. Hepatologists should include MAFLD subjects in the high-risk group, intensify preventive measurements, and prioritize their vaccination.

Mechanisms and Potential Roles of Glucose-Lowering Agents in COVID-19: A Review

OBJECTIVE

To explore mechanistic benefits of glucose-lowering agents that extend beyond glycemic control with the potential to mitigate coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) complications.

DATA SOURCES

The following PubMed literature search terms were used from July 2020 to January 2, 2021: diabetes, COVID-19, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), glucose-lowering agents, and pharmacology.

STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION

English-language studies reporting on the association between diabetes, COVID-19 adverse outcomes, and the potential roles of glucose-lowering agents were reviewed.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Selected glucose-lowering agents have benefits beyond glycemic control, with the potential to reduce the risks of severe complications during SARS-CoV-2 infection. Key benefits include anti-inflammatory, anticoagulant, immune modulating, and enzyme/receptor effects.

RELEVANCE TO PATIENT CARE AND CLINICAL PRACTICE

This review summarizes the current knowledge of glucose-lowering agents and their potential roles in COVID-19 outcomes. Considering beneficial mechanisms on COVID-19 outcomes that extend beyond glycemic control as well as safety profiles, current data suggest that dipeptidyl peptidase-IV (DPP-IV) inhibitors and metformin may have the most promise and warrant further investigation.

CONCLUSIONS

Certain glucose-lowering agents may offer additional benefits beyond glucose control-namely, by modulating the mechanisms contributing to adverse outcomes related to COVID-19 in patients with diabetes. DPP-IV inhibitors and metformin appear to have the most promise. However, current published literature on diabetes medications and COVID-19 should be interpreted with caution. Most published studies are retrospective and consist of convenience samples, and some lack adequate analytical approaches with confounding biases. Ongoing trials aim to evaluate the effects of glucose-lowering agents in reducing the severity of COVID-19 outcomes.

Physiological and Immunological Causes of the Susceptibility of Chronic Inflammatory Patients to COVID-19 Infection: Focus on Diabetes

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has recently emerged, which was then spread rapidly in more than 190 countries worldwide so far. According to the World Health Organization, 3,232,062 global cases of COVID-19 were confirmed on April 30th with a mortality rate of 3.4%. Notably, the symptoms are almost similar to those of flu such as fever, cough, and fatigue. Unfortunately, the global rates of morbidity and mortality caused by this disease are more and still increasing on a daily basis. The rates for patients suffering from inflammatory diseases like diabetes, is even further, due to their susceptibility to the pathogenesis of COVID-19. In this review, we attempted to focus on diabetes to clarify the physiological and immunological characteristics of diabetics before and after the infection with COVID-19. We hope these conceptions could provide a better understanding of the mechanisms involved in COVID-19 susceptibility and increase the awareness of risk to motivate behavior changes in vulnerable people for enhancing the prevention. Up to now, the important role of immune responses, especially the innate ones, in the development of the worst signs in COVID-19 infection have been confirmed. Therefore, to better control patients with COVID-19, it is recommended to consider a history of chronic inflammatory diseases as well as the way of controlling immune response in these patients.

Insights into the possible impact of COVID-19 on the endocrine system

The novel 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is a highly transmissible and pathogenic coronavirus. Because of the novelty of the COVID-19 pandemic, few data are available on the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 on the different endocrine glands. Previous studies of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) have shown a harmful effect on endocrine function. Notably, the angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 receptor, which is the entry route of coronaviruses to the host cell, is widely expressed in the endocrine organs including testis, endocrine pancreas, thyroid, and adrenal, and pituitary glands. Clinical and biochemical manifestations have been recorded in COVID-19 patients resulting in changes in endocrine activities, which were also recorded during the SARS outbreak in 2003. This review aims to explore the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on the function of endocrine glands, based on the latest research in the field.

COVID-19 Patient with Severe Comorbidity in Multimodal Acute Care Setting with Non-Invasive Medical Ventilation: A Clinical Outcome Report

The virus that causes COVID-19 is rapidly spreading across the globe. Elderly patients with multiple pre-existing conditions are at a higher risk. This case study describes acute inpatient treatment of a COVID-19 patient with uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, kidney complications, heart failure, chronic pain, depression, and other comorbidities in an isolation ward without mechanical ventilation.

Obesity and diabetes as high-risk factors for severe coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19)

The outbreak of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) has become an evolving worldwide health crisis. With the rising prevalence of obesity and diabetes has come an increasing awareness of their impacts on infectious diseases, including increased risk for various infections, post-infection complications and mortality from critical infections. Although epidemiological and clinical characteristics of Covid-19 have been constantly reported, no article has systematically illustrated the role of obesity and diabetes in Covid-19, or how Covid-19 affects obesity and diabetes, or special treatment in these at-risk populations. Here, we present a synthesis of the recent advances in our understanding of the relationships between obesity, diabetes and Covid-19 along with the underlying mechanisms, and provide special treatment guidance for these at-risk populations.

Insulin Use, Diabetes Control, and Outcomes in Patients with COVID-19

Background: The novel coronavirus (SARS CoV-2) has caused significant morbidity and mortality in patients with diabetes. However, the effects of diabetes control including insulin use remain uncertain in terms of clinical outcomes of patients with COVID-19.Methods: In this single-center, retrospective observational study, all adult patients admitted to Einstein Medical Center, Philadelphia, from March 1 through April 24, 2020 with a diagnosis of COVID-19 and diabetes were included. Demographic, clinical and laboratory data, insulin dose at home and at the hospital, other anti-hyperglycemic agents use, and outcomes were obtained. Multivariate logistic regression was used to evaluate the factors associated with diabetes control and mortality.Results: Patients who used insulin at home had higher mortality compared to those who did not (35% vs 18% p = .015), this was true even after adjustment for demographics, comorbidities and a1c OR 2.65 95% CI (1.23-5.71) p = .013. However, the mean a1c and the median home requirements of insulin did not significantly differ among patients who died compared to the ones that survived. Patients who died had significantly higher inpatient insulin requirements (highest day insulin requirement recorded in units during hospitalization) 36 (11-86) vs 21 (8-52) p = .043 despite similar baseline a1c and steroid doses received. After adjusting for demographics, comorbidities and a1c, peak insulin requirements remained significantly associated with inpatient mortality OR 1.022 95% CI (1.00-1.04) p = .044.Conclusion: Among diabetic patients infected with COVID-19, insulin therapy at home was significantly independently associated with increased mortality. Peak daily inpatient insulin requirements was also independently associated with increased inpatient mortality.

Predictors of mortality in a multiracial urban cohort of persons with type 2 diabetes and novel coronavirus 19

BACKGROUND

Diabetes has been identified as a risk factor for intubation and mortality in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). We seek to examine the impact of clinical variables such as glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) on mortality and need for intubation, as well as demographic variables such as age, sex, and race on persons with type 2 diabetes and COVID-19.

METHODS

Analyses were conducted on 4413 patients with an International Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD-10) diagnosis of type 2 diabetes and COVID-19. Survival analysis was conducted using Kaplan-Meier curves and the log-rank test to compare subgroup analyses.

RESULTS

In this multivariate analysis, male gender, older age, and hyperglycemia at admission were associated with increased mortality and intubation, but this was not seen for race, ethnicity, insurance type, or HbA1c. Based on Kaplan-Meier analysis, having comorbid conditions such as hypertension, chronic kidney disease, and coronary artery disease was associated with a statistically significant increased risk of mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Glycemic levels at admission have a greater impact on health outcomes than HbA1c. Older men and those with comorbid disease are also at greater risk for mortality. Further longitudinal studies need to be done to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 on type 2 diabetes.

The Strategy of Boosting the Immune System Under the COVID-19 Pandemic

The novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) infection (COVID-19) has raised considerable concern on the entire planet. On March 11, 2020, COVID-19 was categorized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a pandemic infection, and by March 18, 2020, it has spread to 146 countries. The first internal defense line against numerous diseases is personalized immunity. Although it cannot be claimed that personalized nutrition will have an immediate impact on a global pandemic, as the nutritional interventions required a long time to induce beneficial outcomes on immunity development, nutritional strategies are still able to clarify and have a beneficial influence on the interplay between physiology and diet, which could make a positive contribution to the condition in the next period. As such, a specific goal for every practitioner is to evaluate different tests to perceive the status of the patient, such as markers of inflammation, insulin regulation, and nutrient status, and to detect possible imbalances or deficiencies. During the process of disease development, the supplementation and addition of different nutrients and nutraceuticals can influence not only the viral replication but also the cellular mechanisms. It is essential to understand that every patient has its individual needs. Even though many nutrients, nutraceuticals, and drugs have beneficial effects on the immune response and can prevent or ameliorate viral infections, it is essential to detect at what stage in COVID-19 progression the patient is at the moment and decide what kind of nutrition intervention is necessary. Furthermore, understanding the pathogenesis of coronavirus infection is critical to make proper recommendations.

Hyperosmolarity Deserves More Attention in Critically Ill COVID-19 Patients with Diabetes: A Cohort-Based Study

PURPOSE

Recently, a cluster of pneumonia caused by SARS-CoV-2 were identified in Wuhan and spread throughout the world. More information about risk factors for mortality of critically ill patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 remain to be evaluated.

METHODS

We included adult patients confirmed with SARS-CoV-2 infection who were critically ill and admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) of Tongji Hospital in Wuhan from Feb 4, 2020 to Feb 20, 2020. Data were collected and compared between patients who died and improved. Logistic regression was used to explore the risk factors for death of SARS-CoV-2-infected critically ill patients.

RESULTS

A total of 160 critically ill patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection were included, of which 146 patients with appeared outcomes were included into the final analysis. The random blood glucose, serum sodium and effective plasma osmolarity were higher in deceased patients, especially in patients with diabetes. There were 7 patients with diabetes with hyperosmolar status and all of them were deceased. Multivariable regression revealed that older age (odds ratio 4.28, 95% CI 1.01-18.20; p = 0.049), higher C-reactive protein (odds ratio 1.01, 1.00-1.03; p = 0.024), higher interleukin-6 (odds ratio 1.01, 1.00-1.03; p = 0.0323), and d-dimer greater than 1 μg/mL (odds ratio 1.10, 1.01-1.20; p = 0.032) at admission were associated with increased odds of death.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, hyperosmolarity needs more attention and may contribute to mortality in critically ill patients with COVID-19, especially in those with diabetes. Older age, inflammatory response, and thrombosis may be risk factors for death of critically ill patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Inpatient Hyperglycemia Management and COVID-19

Diabetes is one of the most common comorbidities in hospitalized patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Inpatient hyperglycemia during this pandemic has been associated with worse outcomes, so it is mandatory to implement effective glycemic control treatment approaches for inpatients with COVID-19. The shortage of personal protective equipment, the need to prevent staff exposure, or the fact that many of the healthcare professionals might be relatively unfamiliar with the management of hyperglycemia may lead to worse glycemic control and, consequently, a worse prognosis. In order to reduce these barriers, we intend to adapt established recommendations to manage hyperglycemia during this pandemic in critical and noncritical care settings.

Markers Associated with COVID-19 Susceptibility, Resistance, and Severity

In December 2019, the latest member of the coronavirus family, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), emerged in Wuhan, China, leading to the outbreak of an unusual viral pneumonia known as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). COVID-19 was then declared as a pandemic in March 2020 by the World Health Organization (WHO). The initial mortality rate of COVID-19 declared by WHO was 2%; however, this rate has increased to 3.4% as of 3 March 2020. People of all ages can be infected with SARS-CoV-2, but those aged 60 or above and those with underlying medical conditions are more prone to develop severe symptoms that may lead to death. Patients with severe infection usually experience a hyper pro-inflammatory immune reaction (i.e., cytokine storm) causing acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), which has been shown to be the leading cause of death in COVID-19 patients. However, the factors associated with COVID-19 susceptibility, resistance and severity remain poorly understood. In this review, we thoroughly explore the correlation between various host, viral and environmental markers, and SARS-CoV-2 in terms of susceptibility and severity.

The gender differences as a risk factor in diabetic patients with COVID-19

Background and Objectives:

In a Turkish cohort study, we revealed first time in literature the gender differences in admission to hospital and rates of mortality for diabetic patients with COVID-19.

Materials and Methods:

The demographics, length of stay, mortality rates and concomitant chronic metabolic diseases of 152 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 were found in our hospital electronic document system (Probel) and recorded in excel files for further statistical analysis.

Results:

In the mortality group (n:22), the numbers of men and women were 9 (40.9%) and 4 (18.2%), respectively. Comparing gender rates in diabetic group, the mortality risk of diabetic men was higher and statistically significant (p<0.05, Pearson Chi-square value:7.246).

Conclusion:

We hope that the findings of this research will give scientists an idea of gender differences in viral pandemics for further studies.

The impact of type 2 diabetes and its management on the prognosis of patients with severe COVID-19

BACKGROUND

Although type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) develop a more severe condition compared to those without diabetes, the mechanisms for this are unknown. Moreover, the impact of treatment with antihyperglycemic drugs and glucocorticoids is unclear.

METHODS

From 1584 COVID-19 patients, 364 severe/critical COVID-19 patients with clinical outcome were enrolled for the final analysis, and patients without preexisting T2DM but elevated glucose levels were excluded. Epidemiological data were obtained and clinical status evaluation carried out to assess the impact of T2DM and its management on clinical outcomes.

RESULTS

Of 364 enrolled severe COVID-19 inpatients, 114 (31.3%) had a history of T2DM. Twenty-seven (23.7%) T2DM patients died, who had more severe inflammation, coagulation activation, myocardia injury, hepatic injury, and kidney injury compared with non-DM patients. In severe COVID-19 patients with T2DM, we demonstrated a higher risk of all-cause fatality with glucocorticoid treatment (adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 3.61; 95% CI, 1.14-11.46; P = .029) and severe hyperglycemia (fasting plasma glucose ≥11.1 mmol/L; adjusted HR, 11.86; 95% CI, 1.21-116.44; P = .034).

CONCLUSIONS

T2DM status aggravated the clinical condition of COVID-19 patients and increased their critical illness risk. Poor fasting blood glucose (≥ 11.1 mmol/L) and glucocorticoid treatment are associated with poor prognosis for T2DM patients with severe COVID-19.

Endocrine and metabolic aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic

COVID-19 infection has tremendously impacted our daily clinical practice as well as our social living organization. Virtually all organs and biological systems suffer from this new coronavirus infection, either because the virus targets directly specific tissues or because of indirect effects. Endocrine diseases are not an exception and some of endocrine organs are at risk of direct or indirect lesion by COVID-19. Although there is still no evidence of higher predisposition to contract the infection in patients with diabetes and/or obesity, the coexistence of these conditions contributes to a worse prognosis because both conditions confer an impaired immunologic system. Cytokines storm can be amplified by these two latter conditions thereby leading to multisystemic failure and death. Glycaemic control has been demonstrated to be crucial to avoiding long hospital stays, ICU requirement and also prevention of excessive mortality. Endocrine treatment modifications as a consequence of COVID-19 infection are required in a proactive manner, in order to avoid decompensation and eventual hospital admission. This is the case of diabetes and adrenal insufficiency in which prompt increase of insulin dosage and substitutive adrenal steroids through adoption of the sick day's rules should be warranted, as well as easy contact with the health care provider through telematic different modalities. New possible endocrinological targets of COVID-19 have been recently described and warrant a full study in the next future.

Countermeasure and therapeutic: A(1-7) to treat acute respiratory distress syndrome due to COVID-19 infection

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic it has become clear that there is a need for therapies that are capable of reducing damage caused to patients from infections. Infections that induce Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) are especially devastating because lung damage is so critical and difficult to manage. Angiotensin (1–7) [A(1–7)] has already been shown to protect pulmonary health and architecture in various models of disease. There is also evidence that A(1–7) can modulate immune function and protect various organs (lung, kidney, and heart) from oxidative damage and inflammation. Here we focus on making a case for the development of novel therapies that target the protective arm of the Renin Angiotensin System (RAS).

COVID-19 and Cardiovascular Comorbidities

The emergence of a new coronavirus - severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) - has resulted in a global pandemic. The associated coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has resulted in a high number of death worldwide. Observational studies and case reports have provided insights that older age and the presence of chronic diseases is frequently associated with a higher COVID-19 severity. These individuals also seem to have a higher risk of mortality due to COVID-19. In this review we provide insights into the impact chronic diseases associated with the cardiovascular system, such as obesity, diabetes mellitus, hypertension and cardiovascular disease might have on SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19. Additionally we review recommendations and guidance's of international scientific associations and discuss which key learnings might be of importance for the future.

Pharmacotherapeutic considerations for the management of diabetes mellitus among hospitalized COVID-19 patients

INTRODUCTION

Diabetes mellitus is one of the most prevalent comorbidities identified in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). This article aims to discuss the pharmacotherapeutic considerations for the management of diabetes in hospitalized patients with COVID-19.

AREAS COVERED

We discussed various aspects of pharmacotherapeutic management in hospitalized patients with COVID-19: (i) susceptibility and severity of COVID-19 among individuals with diabetes, (ii) glycemic goals for hospitalized patients with COVID-19 and concurrent diabetes, (iii) pharmacological treatment considerations for hospitalized patients with COVID-19 and concurrent diabetes.

EXPERT OPINION

The glycemic goals in patients with COVID-19 and concurrent type 1 (T1DM) or type 2 diabetes (T2DM) are to avoid disruption of stable metabolic state, maintain optimal glycemic control, and prevent adverse glycemic events. Patients with T1DM require insulin therapy at all times to prevent ketosis. The management strategies for patients with T2DM include temporary discontinuation of certain oral antidiabetic agents and consideration for insulin therapy. Patients with T2DM who are relatively stable and able to eat regularly may continue with oral antidiabetic agents if glycemic control is satisfactory. Hyperglycemia may develop in patients with systemic corticosteroid treatment and should be managed upon accordingly.

Deadly Companions: COVID-19 and Diabetes in Mexico

In this commentary, I assess the adverse syndemic interactions between COVID-19 and diabetes mellitus. This syndemic is of major concern for a country like Mexico which has seen a steady rise in the percentage of its population suffering these diseases. Mexico now has one of the highest rates of diabetes in the world and a rapidly growing COVID-19 caseload.

Prevalence and impact of diabetes in patients with COVID-19 in China

BACKGROUND

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an emerging infectious disease that has spread rapidly around the world. Previous studies have indicated that COVID-19 patients with diabetes are prone to having poor clinical outcomes.

AIM

To systematically evaluate the prevalence of diabetes among COVID-19 patients in China and its impact on clinical outcomes, including ICU admission, progression to severe cases, or death.

METHODS

We searched studies published in PubMed, Web of Science, and EMBASE from December 1, 2019 to March 31, 2020 to identify relevant observational study that investigated the prevalence of diabetes among COVID-19 patients or its impact on clinical outcomes. We used a random-effects or fixed-effects model to estimate the pooled prevalence of diabetes and risk ratio (RR) and its 95% confidence interval (CI) of diabetes on outcomes. Funnel plots were used to evaluate the publication bias and the heterogeneity was evaluated by I² statistic.

RESULTS

Twenty-three eligible articles including 49564 COVID-19 patients (1573 with and 47991 without diabetes) were finally included. The pooled prevalence of diabetes was 10% (95%CI: 7%-15%) in COVID-19 patients. In the subgroup analyses, the pooled prevalence of diabetes was higher in studies with patients aged > 50 years (13%; 95%CI: 11%-16%) than in studies with patients aged ≤ 50 years (7%; 95%CI: 6%-8%), in severe patients (17%; 95%CI: 14%-20%) than in non-severe patients (6%; 95%CI: 5%-8%), and in dead patients (30%; 95%CI: 13%-46%) than in survivors (8%; 95%CI: 2%-15%) (P < 0.05 for all). Compared with patients without diabetes, the risk of severe cases was higher (RR = 2.13, 95%CI: 1.76-2.56, I² = 49%) in COVID-19 patients with diabetes. The risk of death was also higher in COVID-19 patients with diabetes (RR = 3.16, 95%CI: 2.64-3.78, I² = 34%). However, diabetes was not found to be significantly associated with admission to ICU (RR = 1.16, 95%CI: 0.15-9.11).

CONCLUSION

Nearly one in ten COVID-19 patients have diabetes in China. Diabetes is associated with a higher risk of severe illness and death. The present study suggested that targeted early intervention is needed in COVID-19 patients with diabetes.

"Acute Myocardial Infarction in the Time of COVID-19": A Review of Biological, Environmental, and Psychosocial Contributors

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has quickly become a worldwide health crisis.Although respiratory disease remains the main cause of morbidity and mortality in COVID patients,myocardial damage is a common finding. Many possible biological pathways may explain therelationship between COVID-19 and acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Increased immune andinflammatory responses, and procoagulant profile have characterized COVID patients. All theseresponses may induce endothelial dysfunction, myocardial injury, plaque instability, and AMI.Disease severity and mortality are increased by cardiovascular comorbidities. Moreover, COVID-19has been associated with air pollution, which may also represent an AMI risk factor. Nonetheless,a significant reduction in patient admissions following containment initiatives has been observed,including for AMI. The reasons for this phenomenon are largely unknown, although a real decreasein the incidence of cardiac events seems highly improbable. Instead, patients likely may presentdelayed time from symptoms onset and subsequent referral to emergency departments because offear of possible in-hospital infection, and as such, may present more complications. Here, we aim todiscuss available evidence about all these factors in the complex relationship between COVID-19and AMI, with particular focus on psychological distress and the need to increase awareness ofischemic symptoms.