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Zong L, Zheng Y, Yu X, Dai X, Huang R, Yan G, Xu Y, Zheng M. ICOS-ICOSL pathway enhances NKT-like cell antiviral function in pregnant women with COVID-19. Int J Med Sci 2024; 21:1890-1902. [PMID: 39113896 PMCID: PMC11302565 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.95952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective: The immune response initiated by SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnancy is poorly elucidated. We aimed to access and compare the antiviral cellular responses and lymphocytes activation between healthy pregnancies and pregnant women infected with SARS-CoV-2. Methods: We detected the immunological changes of lymphocytes in peripheral blood of healthy non-pregnant women, non-pregnant women with COVID-19, healthy pregnant women, pregnant women with COVID-19 and convalescent group by flow cytometry. In vitro blockade was used to identify NKT-like cell activation through ICOS-ICOSL pathway. Results: We found that CD3+CD56+ NKT-like cells decreased significantly in COVID-19 positive pregnant women compared to healthy pregnant women. NKT-like cells of pregnant women expressed higher level of activating receptors CD69 and NKp46 after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Particularly, they also increased the expression of the co-stimulatory molecule ICOS. NKT-like cells of pregnant women with COVID-19 up-regulated the expression of IFN-γ, CD107a and Ki67. Meanwhile, we found that ICOSL expression was significantly increased on pDCs in pregnant women with COVID-19. Blocking ICOS in vitro significantly decreased the antiviral activity of NKT-like cells in COVID-19 positive pregnant women, suggesting that ICOS-ICOSL may play an important role in the virus clearance by NKT-like cells. Conclusions: During SARS-CoV-2 infection, NKT-like cells of pregnant women activated through ICOS-ICOSL pathway and played an important role in the antiviral response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Zong
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yuanling Zheng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Xiaojing Yu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Xiaoran Dai
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Ruoyu Huang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Guoxiu Yan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Anhui Provincial Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Hefei, China
| | - Yuanhong Xu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Meijuan Zheng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
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Yu Y, Pan J, Zhao Y, Guo X, Yu W, Zhou F, Shu J, Huang Q. SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnant patients on TNFα inhibitor: Real-life data with a review of literature. J Reprod Immunol 2024; 163:104220. [PMID: 38447289 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2024.104220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) is involved in the occurrence of negative pregnancy outcomes. The study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the immunosuppressive TNFα inhibitors (TNFαi) in the treatment of patients with a history of recurrent reproductive failure in the context of COVID-19 pandemics. We reviewed 85 patients who received TNFαi (certolizumab pegol) during Mainland China's first wave of COVID-19 pandemic, from 21st Nov 2022-11 th Jan 2023. We also collected corresponding data from 130 pregnant patients who never used TNFαi for comparison. There were no significant differences in the history of previous pregnancy loss, miscarriage, embryo implantation failure, comorbidities and doses of COVID-19 vaccination. 82.2% and 87.7% pregnant patients contracted primary COVID-19 with symptoms in TNFαi group and no-TNFαi group. Duration of symptoms was significantly longer in TNFαi group and the incidences of cough and lethargy was significantly higher in TNFαi group. Both groups reported similar severity to same-aged close contacts, similar rates of other symptoms and hospitalization. No deaths were reported. In the in vitro fertilization (IVF) subgroup, we achieved a biochemical pregnancy loss rate of 17.4%, miscarriage rate of 21.7%, ongoing pregnancy rate and live birth rate of 34.2%. COVID-19 did not influence the live birth rate. We concluded that TNFαi administration in pregnancy was not associated with increased susceptivity to and severity of COVID-19. However, TNFαi users showed more prominent symptoms and longer recovery time. The pregnancy outcomes with TNFαi in such high-risk group for pregnancy loss was satisfactory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqi Yu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, China; Reproductive Medicine Center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310002, China.
| | - Jiaying Pan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Xianju County People's Hospital, Taizhou, Zhejiang 317399, China
| | - Yiqi Zhao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, China
| | - Xiaoyan Guo
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, China; Reproductive Medicine Center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310002, China
| | - Wenting Yu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, China
| | - Feifei Zhou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, China
| | - Jing Shu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, China; Reproductive Medicine Center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310002, China
| | - Qiongxiao Huang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, China.
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Libretti A, Troìa L, Cappello AM, Casarotti C, D'Amato AT, Dallarda G, Ghio M, Nicosia A, Ricci D, Savasta F, Sonzini M, Villa D, De Pedrini A, Surico D, Remorgida V. Pregnancy and neonatal outcomes of SARS-CoV-2 infection discovered at the time of delivery: a tertiary center experience in North Italy. J Perinat Med 2024; 52:215-221. [PMID: 37846639 DOI: 10.1515/jpm-2023-0280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Although the knowledge on SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnancy has greatly improved, there is still a lack of information on its role in the later stages of gestation. The aim of this study is to investigate whether SARS-CoV-2 discovered at delivery is associated with any obstetric or neonatal complications. METHODS A retrospective case-control study was conducted at Department of Obstetrics, University Hospital Maggiore della Carità, Novara, Italy, from March 2020 to March 2023. Pregnant women admitted were tested for SARS-CoV-2. 168 women resulted positive at the time of delivery; the women were asymptomatic or paucisymptomatic. 170 negative women were selected as controls, selecting, for each SARS-CoV-2 positive patient, the patient who gave birth right before, if negative. Demographic and anamnestic characteristics, pregnancy, labor, and neonatal outcomes were evaluated. RESULTS SARS-CoV-2 positive patients were more likely to have gestational diabetes (13.7 vs. 5.3 %) and required less frequently intrapartum analgesia (11.3 vs. 27 %) and labor augmentation (7.3 vs. 16.5 %). Post-partum hemorrhage rate was lower (13.7 vs. 22.9 %) and a shorter length of first and second stage of labor occurred. There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups regarding the mode of delivery and neonatal outcomes. CONCLUSIONS SARS-CoV-2 positive patients have shorter labor length and a lower incidence of postpartum hemorrhage. Fewer obstetric interventions, as well as less use of intrapartum analgesia and oxytocin, could explain these findings. Moreover, gestational diabetes could increase susceptibility to infection. SARS-CoV-2 infection discovered at the time of delivery in asymptomatic or paucisymptomatic patients does not appear to increase the rate of cesarean delivery or other obstetric complications, and neonatal outcomes have not worsened.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Libretti
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Maggiore della Carità, Novara, Italy
- School of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University of Eastern Piedmont, Novara, Italy
| | - Libera Troìa
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Maggiore della Carità, Novara, Italy
- School of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University of Eastern Piedmont, Novara, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Cappello
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Maggiore della Carità, Novara, Italy
- School of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University of Eastern Piedmont, Novara, Italy
| | - Carolina Casarotti
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Maggiore della Carità, Novara, Italy
- School of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University of Eastern Piedmont, Novara, Italy
| | - Alessia Tony D'Amato
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Maggiore della Carità, Novara, Italy
- School of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University of Eastern Piedmont, Novara, Italy
| | - Gloria Dallarda
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Maggiore della Carità, Novara, Italy
- School of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University of Eastern Piedmont, Novara, Italy
| | - Matilda Ghio
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Maggiore della Carità, Novara, Italy
- School of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University of Eastern Piedmont, Novara, Italy
| | - Anthony Nicosia
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Maggiore della Carità, Novara, Italy
- School of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University of Eastern Piedmont, Novara, Italy
| | - Daria Ricci
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Maggiore della Carità, Novara, Italy
- School of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University of Eastern Piedmont, Novara, Italy
| | - Federica Savasta
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Maggiore della Carità, Novara, Italy
- School of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University of Eastern Piedmont, Novara, Italy
| | - Michela Sonzini
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Maggiore della Carità, Novara, Italy
- School of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University of Eastern Piedmont, Novara, Italy
| | - Diletta Villa
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Maggiore della Carità, Novara, Italy
- School of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University of Eastern Piedmont, Novara, Italy
| | - Alberto De Pedrini
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Maggiore della Carità, Novara, Italy
- School of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University of Eastern Piedmont, Novara, Italy
| | - Daniela Surico
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Maggiore della Carità, Novara, Italy
- School of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University of Eastern Piedmont, Novara, Italy
| | - Valentino Remorgida
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Maggiore della Carità, Novara, Italy
- School of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University of Eastern Piedmont, Novara, Italy
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Bednarek A, Laskowska M. Vaccination Guidelines for Pregnant Women: Addressing COVID-19 and the Omicron Variant. Med Sci Monit 2024; 30:e942799. [PMID: 38229424 PMCID: PMC10802082 DOI: 10.12659/msm.942799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Vaccinations are an essential element of public health programs around the world, which have a major impact on morbidity, mortality, and costs of the health care system. In recent years, with a better understanding of the effectiveness and safety of vaccinations, many recommendations have been developed for administering vaccines to adults. Countless physiological changes occur during pregnancy, including those affecting the immune system. Pregnant women are at increased risk of developing infections and resulting complications. According to research, vaccines are immunogenic and safe for pregnant women. Pregnancy is not an absolute contraindication to vaccination. After administration of vaccines to pregnant women, the concentration of antibodies increases, which can be transferred to the child in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy and provide protection in the first months of life. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) unanimously recommend vaccination of pregnant women if a safe vaccine is available and there is a risk of exposure of the woman to a disease that threatens herself or her developing baby. In everyday clinical practice, medical professionals should provide their patients with the necessary information on vaccinations, which may contribute to greater awareness and implementation of vaccinations. This article aims to review current global recommendations for the vaccination of pregnant and breastfeeding women, including against the Omicron variants of SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Bednarek
- Department of Health Promotion, Chair of Nursing Development, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Marzena Laskowska
- Department of Obstetrics and Perinatology, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
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5
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Irimeș MB, Tertiș M, Oprean R, Cristea C. Unrevealing the connection between real sample analysis and analytical method. The case of cytokines. Med Res Rev 2024; 44:23-65. [PMID: 37246889 DOI: 10.1002/med.21978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Cytokines are compounds that belong to a special class of signaling biomolecules that are responsible for several functions in the human body, being involved in cell growth, inflammatory, and neoplastic processes. Thus, they represent valuable biomarkers for diagnosing and drug therapy monitoring certain medical conditions. Because cytokines are secreted in the human body, they can be detected in both conventional samples, such as blood or urine, but also in samples less used in medical practice such as sweat or saliva. As the importance of cytokines was identified, various analytical methods for their determination in biological fluids were reported. The gold standard in cytokine detection is considered the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method and the most recent ones have been considered and compared in this study. It is known that the conventional methods are accompanied by a few disadvantages that new methods of analysis, especially electrochemical sensors, are trying to overcome. Electrochemical sensors proved to be suited for the elaboration of integrated, portable, and wearable sensing devices, which could also facilitate cytokines determination in medical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria-Bianca Irimeș
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Mihaela Tertiș
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Radu Oprean
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Cecilia Cristea
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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6
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Wagner E, Bień K, Łomża A, Grunwald A, Kimber-Trojnar Ż, Libera A, Leszczyńska-Gorzelak B. Stress of Prematurity in the Experience of the COVID-19 Pandemic-Current State of Knowledge. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1757. [PMID: 37629614 PMCID: PMC10455823 DOI: 10.3390/life13081757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Stress is a process that triggers various physiological, hormonal and psychological mechanisms in response to a threat, which significantly affects the health of an individual. The COVID-19 pandemic introduced a lot of social changes that required constant adaptation to unfavorable conditions. The aim of the study was to assess the impact of stress related to this pandemic on pregnant women, mothers of premature infants and their families, and on obstetric complications, particularly preterm birth. A comprehensive literature review was performed using electronic databases such as Pubmed, Science Direct and Google Scholar. Keywords such as: "prematurity"; "pregnancy"; "stress"; "COVID-19" and various combinations of the above were used. Maternal stress and anxiety increase the levels of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) in the placenta, which in turn affects the incidence of preterm birth and many other related maternal and neonatal complications. In addition, it was found that SARS-CoV-2 infection may increase the risk of this phenomenon. The COVID-19 pandemic has adversely affected preterm birth rates and the mental health of mothers of preterm infants, exacerbating their negative experience of having a premature baby. More research is needed to demonstrate the long-term effects of COVID-19 stress on prematurity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Żaneta Kimber-Trojnar
- Chair and Department of Obstetrics and Perinatology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (E.W.); (K.B.); (A.Ł.); (A.G.); (A.L.); (B.L.-G.)
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7
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Wierzchowska-Opoka M, Grunwald A, Rekowska AK, Łomża A, Mekler J, Santiago M, Kabała Z, Kimber-Trojnar Ż, Leszczyńska-Gorzelak B. Impact of Obesity and Diabetes in Pregnant Women on Their Immunity and Vaccination. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1247. [PMID: 37515062 PMCID: PMC10385489 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11071247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Pregnant women with obesity and diabetes are at increased risk of developing infections and other complications during pregnancy. Several mechanisms are involved in the immunological mechanisms that contribute to reduced immunity in these populations. Both obesity and diabetes are associated with chronic low-grade inflammation that can lead to an overactive immune response. Pregnant women with obesity and diabetes often have an increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines and adipokines, such as TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, leptin, and resistin, which are involved in the inflammatory response. Insulin resistance can also affect the functioning of immune cells. Furthermore, both conditions alter the composition of the gut microbiome, which produces a variety of biomolecules, including short-chain fatty acids, lipopolysaccharides, and other metabolites. These substances may contribute to immune dysfunction. In addition to increasing the risk of infections, obesity and diabetes can also affect the efficacy of vaccinations in pregnant women. Pregnant women with obesity and diabetes are at increased risk of developing severe illness and complications from COVID-19, but COVID-19 vaccination may help protect them and their fetuses from infection and its associated risks. Since both obesity and diabetes classify a pregnancy as high risk, it is important to elucidate the impact of these diseases on immunity and vaccination during pregnancy. Research examining the efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine in a high-risk pregnant population should be of particular value to obstetricians whose patients are hesitant to vaccinate during pregnancy. Further research is needed to better understand these mechanisms and to develop effective interventions to improve immune function in these populations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Arkadiusz Grunwald
- Chair and Department of Obstetrics and Perinatology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-059 Lublin, Poland
| | - Anna K Rekowska
- Chair and Department of Obstetrics and Perinatology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-059 Lublin, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Łomża
- Chair and Department of Obstetrics and Perinatology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-059 Lublin, Poland
| | - Julia Mekler
- Chair and Department of Obstetrics and Perinatology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-059 Lublin, Poland
| | - Miracle Santiago
- Chair and Department of Obstetrics and Perinatology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-059 Lublin, Poland
| | - Zuzanna Kabała
- Chair and Department of Obstetrics and Perinatology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-059 Lublin, Poland
| | - Żaneta Kimber-Trojnar
- Chair and Department of Obstetrics and Perinatology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-059 Lublin, Poland
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8
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Mayne ES, George JA, Louw S. Assessing Biomarkers in Viral Infection. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1412:159-173. [PMID: 37378766 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-28012-2_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Current biomarkers to assess the risk of complications of both acute and chronic viral infection are suboptimal. Prevalent viral infections like human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B and C virus, herpes viruses, and, more recently, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) may be associated with significant sequelae including the risk of cardiovascular disease, other end-organ diseases, and malignancies. This review considers some biomarkers which have been investigated in diagnosis and prognosis of key viral infections including inflammatory cytokines, markers of endothelial dysfunction and activation and coagulation, and the role that more conventional diagnostic markers, such as C-reactive protein and procalcitonin, can play in predicting these secondary complications, as markers of severity and to distinguish viral and bacterial infection. Although many of these are still only available in the research setting, these markers show promise for incorporation in diagnostic algorithms which may assist to predict adverse outcomes and to guide therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth S Mayne
- Division of Immunology, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town and National Health Laboratory Service, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Jaya A George
- National Health Laboratory Service and Wits Diagnostic Innovation Hub, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Susan Louw
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Haematology, School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand and National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg, South Africa
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9
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Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices towards COVID-19 among Pregnant Women in Northern Bangladesh: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study. Behav Sci (Basel) 2022; 13:bs13010002. [PMID: 36661574 PMCID: PMC9855099 DOI: 10.3390/bs13010002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2, remains a global public health concern despite the availability of effective antiviral treatment against multiple strains. Studies have shown that pregnant women are more susceptible to COVID-19 due to altered physiology and immunological features. Therefore, this study was designed to investigate pregnant women’s knowledge, attitudes, and practice (KAP) to prevent COVID-19 and determine the factors associated with KAP. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 425 pregnant women in Northern Bangladesh. The samples were obtained using a simple random sampling technique from 5 April to 15 June 2020. The data were collected by face-to-face survey with a structured and pre-tested questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 25. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed, and p-values < 0.05 at 95% CI were considered statistically significant. Results: Overall, the score of KAP among the respondents was 47.76%, 49.41%, and 56.24%, respectively. Participants’ area of residence, educational status of the husband, and antenatal care (ANC) visit were significantly associated with the level of knowledge, whereas age, educational status of the husband, number of living children, and knowledge were significant predictors of attitude. The knowledge of COVID-19 was the only predictor associated with the practice. Conclusion: Our study shows that almost half of the participants had poor knowledge, a negative attitude, and poor practices regarding COVID-19. Additional health education programs by healthcare professionals and different media, coordinated and combined efforts of government and individuals’ participation will be required to fight the spread of the infection.
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10
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Pregnancy and COVID-19. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11226645. [PMID: 36431122 PMCID: PMC9695358 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11226645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Evidence indicates that SARS-CoV-2 infection increases the likelihood of adverse pregnancy outcomes. Modifications in the circulatory, pulmonary, hormonal, and immunological pathways induced by pregnancy render pregnant women as a high-risk group. A growing body of research shows that SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy is connected to a number of maternal complications, including pneumonia and intensive care unit (ICU) hospitalization. Miscarriages, stillbirth, preterm labor, as well as pre-eclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction are also among the most often documented fetal implications, particularly among expecting women who have significant COVID-19 symptoms, often affecting the timing and route of delivery. Thus, prevention of infection and pharmacological treatment options should aim to minimize the aforementioned risks and ameliorate maternal, obstetric and fetal/neonatal outcomes.
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11
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Gorczyca K, Obuchowska A, Kimber-Trojnar Ż, Wierzchowska-Opoka M, Leszczyńska-Gorzelak B. Changes in the Gut Microbiome and Pathologies in Pregnancy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19169961. [PMID: 36011603 PMCID: PMC9408136 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19169961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Pregnancy is a special period in a woman's life when her organism undergoes multiple physiological changes so that the fetus has optimal conditions for growth and development. These include modifications in the composition of the microbiome that occur between the first and third trimesters of pregnancy. There is an increase in Akkermansia, Bifidobacterium, and Firmicutes, which have been associated with an increase in the need for energy storage. The growth in Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria levels has a protective effect on both the mother and the fetus via proinflammatory mechanisms. The aim of the study is to review the research on the relationship between the mother's intestinal microbiome and gestational pathologies. Changes in the maternal gut microbiome is probably one of the mechanisms that occurs in various pregnancy diseases such as preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, gestational diabetes mellitus, excessive gestational weight gain, and premature birth. For this reason, it seems vital to pay attention to certain interventions that can benefit the affected patients both in the short term, by preventing complications during pregnancy, and in the long term, as one of the mechanisms occurring in various gestational diseases is dysbiosis of the maternal intestinal flora.
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Ren W, Yang S, Liu H, Pan Z, Li Z, Qiao P, Ma H. Case report and literature review: Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis in a pregnant woman with systemic lupus erythematosus with Syntaxin 11 gene defect. Front Oncol 2022; 12:937494. [PMID: 35965579 PMCID: PMC9367683 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.937494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis is an extremely rare occurrence during pregnancy. Early recognition of its signs and symptoms is critical for early intervention, and delays in diagnosis may be life-threatening. A 23-year-old nulliparous woman presented with a persistent fever as high as 39°C with bilateral edema of the lower limbs at 24 weeks of gestation. Typical laboratory findings included pancytopenia, high triglycerides, ferritin, transaminases, bilirubin, and hypoproteinemia. Active systemic lupus erythematosus was diagnosed using an autoimmune work-up and a Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index 2000 score of 17 points. Her bone marrow aspirate revealed prominent hemophagocytosis; hence, HLH was confirmed. Genetic tests showed mutations in Syntaxin 11 mutations. Considering the potential impact of drugs on the fetus, the patient and her family members chose to terminate the pregnancy through medical induction of labor. Afterwards, her condition improved with immunosuppressive therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Ren
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Siyuan Yang
- College of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Haiying Liu
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Zhenglun Pan
- Department of Rheumatism and Immunology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Zhao Li
- Department of Hematology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Peng Qiao
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
- *Correspondence: Peng Qiao, ; Hui Ma,
| | - Hui Ma
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
- *Correspondence: Peng Qiao, ; Hui Ma,
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Mehta J, Rolta R, Mehta BB, Kaushik N, Choi EH, Kaushik NK. Role of Dexamethasone and Methylprednisolone Corticosteroids in Coronavirus Disease 2019 Hospitalized Patients: A Review. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:813358. [PMID: 35242118 PMCID: PMC8886296 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.813358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The WHO announced coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) as a pandemic disease globally on March 11, 2020, after it emerged in China. The emergence of COVID-19 has lasted over a year, and despite promising vaccine reports that have been produced, we still have a long way to go until such remedies are accessible to everyone. The immunomodulatory strategy has been kept at the top priority for the research agenda for COVID-19. Corticosteroids have been used to modulate the immune response in a wide range of diseases for the last 70 years. These drugs have been shown to avoid and reduce inflammation in tissues and the bloodstream through non-genomic and genomic effects. Now, the use of corticosteroids increased the chance of survival and relief by combating the viral strong inflammatory impacts and has moved to the forefront in the management of patients seeking supplemental oxygen. The goal of this review is to illuminate dexamethasone and methylprednisolone, i.e., in terms of their chemical and physical properties, role in COVID-19 patients suffering from pneumonia, the proposed mode of action in COVID-19, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, clinical outcomes in immunocompromised populations with COVID-19, interaction with other drugs, and contradiction to explore the trends and perspectives for future research. Literature was searched from scientific databases such as Science Direct, Wiley, Springer, PubMed, and books for the preparation of this review. The RECOVERY trial, a massive, multidisciplinary, randomized, and open-label trial, is mainly accountable for recommendations over the usage of corticosteroids in COVID-19 patients. The corticosteroids such as dexamethasone and methylprednisolone in the form of medication have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-allergic characteristics, including the ability to inhibit the immune system. These drugs are also recommended for treating symptoms of multiple ailments such as rheumatic and autoimmune diseases, leukemia, multiple myeloma, and Hodgkin’s and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma along with other drugs. Toxicology studies proved them safe usually at low dosage via oral or other routes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyoti Mehta
- Faculty of Applied Sciences and Biotechnology, Shoolini University of Biotechnology and Management Sciences, Solan, India
| | - Rajan Rolta
- Faculty of Applied Sciences and Biotechnology, Shoolini University of Biotechnology and Management Sciences, Solan, India
| | | | - Neha Kaushik
- Department of Biotechnology, The University of Suwon, Hwaseong, South Korea
| | - Eun Ha Choi
- Department of Electrical and Biological Physics, Plasma Bioscience Research Center, Kwangwoon University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Nagendra Kumar Kaushik
- Department of Electrical and Biological Physics, Plasma Bioscience Research Center, Kwangwoon University, Seoul, South Korea
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Hon KLE, Leung KKY, Hui WF, Cheung WL, Leung WH. Neonatal COVID and Familial Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis. Pediatr Emerg Care 2022; 38:e1094-e1096. [PMID: 35226638 PMCID: PMC8884124 DOI: 10.1097/pec.0000000000002643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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