Mechanical ventilation and neurocritical patients: is there a role for anti-neuroinflammatory therapies?

Polycystic ovary syndrome and risks for COVID-19 infection: A comprehensive review : PCOS and COVID-19 relationship

This comprehensive review aimed to evaluate the relationship between SARS-CoV-2 infection (the cause of coronavirus disease 2019, or COVID-19) and the metabolic and endocrine characteristics frequently found in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). In the general population, COVID-19 is more severe in subjects with dyslipidemia, obesity, diabetes mellitus, and arterial hypertension. Because these conditions are comorbidities commonly associated with PCOS, it was hypothesized that women with PCOS would be at higher risk for acquiring COVID-19 and developing more severe clinical presentations. This hypothesis was confirmed in several epidemiological studies. The present review shows that women with PCOS are at 28%-50% higher risk of being infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus at all ages and that, in these women, COVID-19 is associated with increased rates of hospitalization, morbidity, and mortality. We summarize the mechanisms of the higher risk of COVID-19 infection in women with PCOS, particularly in those with carbohydrate and lipid abnormal metabolism, hyperandrogenism, and central obesity.

Neuroinflammation, neuronal damage or cognitive impairment associated with mechanical ventilation: A systematic review of evidence from animal studies

PURPOSE

Long-term cognitive impairment is a complication of critical illness survivors. Beside its lifesaving role, mechanical ventilation has potential complications. The aim of this study is to systematically review the evidence collected in animal studies that correlate mechanical ventilation with neuroinflammation, neuronal damage and cognitive impairment.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE and EMBASE databases for studies published from inception until August 31st, 2020, that enrolled mechanically ventilated animals and reported on neuroinflammation or neuronal damage markers changes or cognitive-behavioural impairment.

RESULTS

Of 5583 studies, 11 met inclusion criteria. Mice, rats, pigs were used. Impact of MV: 4 out of 7 studies reported higher neuroinflammation markers in MV-treated animals and 3 studies reported no differences; 7 out of 8 studies reported a higher neuronal damage and 1 reported no differences; 2 out of 2 studies reported cognitive decline up to 3 days after MV. Higher Tidal volumes are associated with higher changes in brain or serum markers.

CONCLUSION

Preclinical evidence suggests that MV induces neuroinflammation, neuronal damage and cognitive impairment and these are worsened if sub-optimal MV settings are applied. Future studies, with appropriate methodology, are necessary to evaluate for serum monitoring strategies.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42019148935.