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Dejeu D, Dejeu P, Bradea P, Muresan A, Dejeu V. Evaluating Weight Loss Efficacy in Obesity Treatment with Allurion's Ingestible Gastric Balloon: A Retrospective Study Utilizing the Scale App Health Tracker. Clin Pract 2024; 14:765-778. [PMID: 38804393 PMCID: PMC11130893 DOI: 10.3390/clinpract14030061] [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: 03/30/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Obesity represents a growing public health concern, affecting more than 15% of the global adult population and involving a multi-billion market that comprises nutritional, surgical, psychological, and multidisciplinary interventions. The objective of this retrospective study was to evaluate the short-term efficacy and body weight measurements associated with differing levels of physical activity following the use of Allurion's ingestible gastric balloon that was designed to increase feelings of fullness and decrease food consumption, being naturally eliminated after approximately 16 weeks. This study involved 571 individuals who qualified for the intervention for being older than 20 years with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 kg/m2 or more. Utilizing the Scale App Health Tracker and Allurion's smartwatch, this study was able to track vital signs and physical activity in real time. The participants had an average initial BMI of 34.1 kg/m2 and a median age of 41 years. Notable outcomes were observed in both study groups, "Less Active" and "More Active", which were classified by achieving less or more than a median number of 8000 daily steps. Specifically, body fat percentage saw a reduction from 33.1 ± 9.4 to 28.3 ± 10.2 in the less active group and from 32.2 to 27.5 in the more active group, with both groups achieving statistical significance (p < 0.001). Additionally, there was a significant reduction in average weight, dropping from 98.2 ± 22.8 kg to 84.6 ± 19.3 kg in the less active group and from 97.7 ± 21.0 kg to 82.1 ± 22.9 kg in the more active group (both p < 0.001). Interestingly, those in the more active group also experienced a significant increase in lean mass compared to their less active counterparts (p = 0.045), although no substantial differences in weight loss, BMI reduction, and total body fat decrease were observed between the two groups. This investigation confirms the hypothesis that Allurion's ingestible gastric balloon significantly reduces weight in the short term and enhances several physical health metrics, demonstrating effectiveness as an autonomous method for challenging weight management, regardless of the level of daily physical activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danut Dejeu
- Surgical Oncology Department, Emergency County Hospital Oradea, Strada Gheorghe Doja 65, 410169 Oradea, Romania; (D.D.); (A.M.)
- Bariatric Surgery Department, Medlife Humanitas Hospital, Strada Frunzisului 75, 400664 Cluj Napoca, Romania
| | - Paula Dejeu
- Laboratory Medicine Unit, Betania Medical Center, Menumorut 12, 410004 Oradea, Romania
| | - Paula Bradea
- Gastroenterology Unit, Betania Medical Center, Menumorut 12, 410004 Oradea, Romania;
| | - Anita Muresan
- Surgical Oncology Department, Emergency County Hospital Oradea, Strada Gheorghe Doja 65, 410169 Oradea, Romania; (D.D.); (A.M.)
| | - Viorel Dejeu
- Bariatric Surgery Department, Life Memorial Hospital, Calea Grivitei 365, 010719 Bucuresti, Romania;
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Bota AV, Bogdan I, Razvan DV, Ilie AC, Tudor R, Indries MF, Csep AN, Marincu I. A Three-Year Cross-Sectional Analysis of Depression, Anxiety, and Quality of Life in Patients with Post-COVID-19 Syndrome. Int J Gen Med 2024; 17:751-762. [PMID: 38476627 PMCID: PMC10929241 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s453247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Background This study explores the longitudinal psychosocial impact of Long-COVID syndrome, also known as Post-COVID-19 syndrome, characterized by enduring symptoms after coronavirus disease (COVID-19) infection, over the years 2020, 2021, and 2022. It aimed to examine the variations in depression, anxiety, and quality of life among Post-COVID-19 patients during these years, hypothesizing significant inter-year differences reflecting the pandemic's evolving influence. Methods Conducted at Victor Babes Hospital for Infectious Diseases and Pulmonology, Romania, this cross-sectional research involved 324 patients diagnosed with mild to moderate COVID-19, assessed six months post-hospitalization. Standardized instruments, namely Short Form (SF-36) for quality of life, Generalised Anxiety Disorder Assessment (GAD-7) for anxiety, and Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) for depression, were utilized. Results The study observed a consistent average patient age of around 55 years across the years. A notable increase in COVID-19 vaccination rates was recorded, rising from 20.9% in 2020 to over 70% in 2022 (p<0.001). Trends in key post-COVID symptoms like fatigue and cognitive issues varied over the years. Importantly, there was a consistent decrease in feelings of sadness or depression, with scores declining from 7.3 in 2020 to 4.8 in 2022 (p<0.001). The SF-36 survey indicated a steady improvement in overall health, reaching 55.8±7.1 in 2022 (p=0.035). Both GAD-7 and PHQ-9 scores showed significant reductions in anxiety and depression over the years, with p-values of 0.030 and 0.031, respectively. Factors such as smoking status, substance use, and the initial severity of COVID-19 infection were significantly associated with depression levels. Conclusion The findings suggest that despite persistent physical symptoms, Long-COVID patients experienced enhancements in mental well-being and quality of life over the studied period. The increasing vaccination rates might have contributed to this improvement. Addressing modifiable risk factors like smoking and substance use could further optimize post-COVID care and mental health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Vasile Bota
- Methodological and Infectious Diseases Research Center, Department of Infectious Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, 300041, Romania
- Doctoral School, “victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, 300041, Romania
| | - Iulia Bogdan
- Methodological and Infectious Diseases Research Center, Department of Infectious Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, 300041, Romania
- Doctoral School, “victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, 300041, Romania
- Department of Infectious Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, 300041, Romania
| | - David Vladut Razvan
- Methodological and Infectious Diseases Research Center, Department of Infectious Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, 300041, Romania
- Doctoral School, “victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, 300041, Romania
| | - Adrian Cosmin Ilie
- Department III Functional Sciences, Division of Public Health and Management, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, 300041, Romania
| | - Raluca Tudor
- Second Discipline of Neurology, “victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Timisoara, 300041, Romania
| | - Mirela Florica Indries
- Department of Psycho-Neuroscience and Recovery, University of Oradea, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Oradea, 410087, Romania
| | - Andrei Nicolae Csep
- Department of Psycho-Neuroscience and Recovery, University of Oradea, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Oradea, 410087, Romania
| | - Iosif Marincu
- Methodological and Infectious Diseases Research Center, Department of Infectious Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, 300041, Romania
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Bota AV, Bratosin F, Bandi SSS, Bogdan I, Razvan DV, Toma AO, Indries MF, Csep AN, Cotoraci C, Prodan M, Marc F, Ignuta F, Marincu I. A Comparative Analysis of Liver Injury Markers in Post-COVID Syndrome among Elderly Patients: A Prospective Study. J Clin Med 2024; 13:1149. [PMID: 38398462 PMCID: PMC10889217 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13041149] [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: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the wake of the global COVID-19 pandemic, understanding its prolonged impact on vulnerable populations has become a critical area of investigation. This study aimed to elucidate the distinctive post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC) and liver injury in Romania's elderly population, hypothesizing unique demographic, clinical, and healthcare factors influencing the manifestation. METHODS A longitudinal design was employed, enrolling COVID-19 patients from the Victor Babes Hospital for Infectious Diseases and Pulmonology in Timisoara, Romania. Participants were stratified into three groups based on age and Long COVID status. The study focused on a variety of demographic, clinical, and biological parameters, including liver function tests, to assess the trajectory and severity of liver injury over six months post discharge. RESULTS Involving 238 participants, the study revealed a significant increase in the duration of hospitalization for those over 65 (15.8 ± 8.2 days) compared to younger groups (p < 0.001). Notably, elderly Long COVID patients exhibited a marked elevation in liver enzymes post discharge, with median ΔALT and ΔAST of 24.1 U/L and 30.2 U/L, respectively, suggesting ongoing liver injury (p < 0.001). Significant metabolic disruptions were observed, with the ΔFasting glucose showing a substantial median decrease of 21.1 mmol/L in the elderly group (p < 0.001). A pronounced reduction in ΔGGT (16.7 U/L) and ΔLDH (48.7 U/L) was noted, indicating a recovery in liver function and reduced tissue damage (p < 0.001). Coagulation profiles and liver fibrosis risk scores, particularly ΔFIB-4 and ΔAPRI, also significantly improved post discharge, indicating a reduced risk of ongoing liver complications. CONCLUSION This study confirms the hypothesis of more severe PASC and liver injury among the elderly Romanian population. Significant improvements post discharge suggest a degree of recovery, yet the persistent alterations in liver enzymes, glucose metabolism, and fibrosis risk scores call for continued monitoring and tailored management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Vasile Bota
- Methodological and Infectious Diseases Research Center, Department of Infectious Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (A.V.B.); (F.B.); (I.B.); (D.V.R.); (F.I.); (I.M.)
- Doctoral School, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- Department of Hematology, Faculty of Medicine, “Vasile Goldis” Western University, Bulevardul Revolutiei 94, 310025 Arad, Romania;
| | - Felix Bratosin
- Methodological and Infectious Diseases Research Center, Department of Infectious Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (A.V.B.); (F.B.); (I.B.); (D.V.R.); (F.I.); (I.M.)
- Doctoral School, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- Discipline of Infectious Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Satya Sai Sri Bandi
- Malla Reddy Institute of Medical Sciences, Suraram Main Road 138, Hyderabad 500055, India;
| | - Iulia Bogdan
- Methodological and Infectious Diseases Research Center, Department of Infectious Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (A.V.B.); (F.B.); (I.B.); (D.V.R.); (F.I.); (I.M.)
- Doctoral School, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- Discipline of Infectious Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - David Vladut Razvan
- Methodological and Infectious Diseases Research Center, Department of Infectious Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (A.V.B.); (F.B.); (I.B.); (D.V.R.); (F.I.); (I.M.)
- Doctoral School, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Ana-Olivia Toma
- Discipline of Dermatology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Mirela Florica Indries
- Department of Psycho-Neuroscience and Recovery, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, Strada Universitatii 1, 410087 Oradea, Romania;
| | - Andrei Nicolae Csep
- Department of Psycho-Neuroscience and Recovery, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, Strada Universitatii 1, 410087 Oradea, Romania;
| | - Coralia Cotoraci
- Department of Hematology, Faculty of Medicine, “Vasile Goldis” Western University, Bulevardul Revolutiei 94, 310025 Arad, Romania;
| | - Mihaela Prodan
- Doctoral School, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- Department of Plastic Surgery, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Felicia Marc
- Department of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410073 Oradea, Romania
| | - Flavia Ignuta
- Methodological and Infectious Diseases Research Center, Department of Infectious Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (A.V.B.); (F.B.); (I.B.); (D.V.R.); (F.I.); (I.M.)
- Doctoral School, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Iosif Marincu
- Methodological and Infectious Diseases Research Center, Department of Infectious Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (A.V.B.); (F.B.); (I.B.); (D.V.R.); (F.I.); (I.M.)
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Marza AM, Cindrea AC, Petrica A, Stanciugelu AV, Barsac C, Mocanu A, Critu R, Botea MO, Trebuian CI, Lungeanu D. Non-Ventilated Patients with Spontaneous Pneumothorax or Pneumomediastinum Associated with COVID-19: Three-Year Debriefing across Five Pandemic Waves. J Pers Med 2023; 13:1497. [PMID: 37888108 PMCID: PMC10608223 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13101497] [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: 09/17/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Spontaneous pneumothorax and pneumomediastinum (SP-SPM) are relatively rare medical conditions that can occur with or independently of COVID-19. We conducted a retrospective analysis of SP-SPM cases presented to the emergency departments (EDs) of two University-affiliated tertiary hospitals from 1 March 2020 to 31 October 2022. A total of 190 patients were identified: 52 were COVID-19 cases, and 138 were non-COVID-19 cases. The primary outcome we were looking for was in-hospital mortality. The secondary outcomes concerned the disease severity assessed by (a) days of hospitalization; (b) required mechanical ventilation (MV); and (c) required intensive care (IC). All were investigated in the context of the five pandemic waves and the patients' age and comorbidities. The pandemic waves had no significant effect on the outcomes of these patients. Logistic regression found age (OR = 1.043; 95%CI 1.002-1.085), COVID-19 (OR = 6.032; 95%CI 1.757-20.712), number of comorbidities (OR = 1.772; 95%CI 1.046-3.001), and ground-glass opacities over 50% (OR = 5.694; 95%CI 1.169-27.746) as significant risk predictors of in-hospital death while controlling for gender, smoking, the pandemic wave, and the extension of SP-SPM. The model proved good prediction performance (Nagelkerke R-square = 0.524) and would hold the same significant predictors for MV and IC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adina Maria Marza
- Department of Surgery, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (A.M.M.); (A.P.); (C.I.T.)
- Emergency Department, Emergency Clinical Municipal Hospital, 300079 Timisoara, Romania
| | | | - Alina Petrica
- Department of Surgery, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (A.M.M.); (A.P.); (C.I.T.)
- Emergency Department, “Pius Brinzeu” Emergency Clinical County Hospital, 300736 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Alexandra Valentina Stanciugelu
- Emergency Department, Emergency Clinical Municipal Hospital, 300079 Timisoara, Romania
- Doctoral School, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Claudiu Barsac
- Department of Surgery, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (A.M.M.); (A.P.); (C.I.T.)
- Clinic of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, “Pius Brinzeu” Emergency Clinical County Hospital, 300736 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Alexandra Mocanu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Roxana Critu
- Doctoral School, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Mihai Octavian Botea
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410087 Oradea, Romania
| | - Cosmin Iosif Trebuian
- Department of Surgery, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (A.M.M.); (A.P.); (C.I.T.)
| | - Diana Lungeanu
- Center for Modeling Biological Systems and Data Analysis, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- Department of Functional Sciences, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
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Suppini N, Oancea C, Fira-Mladinescu O, Traila D, Pescaru C, Marc MS, Manolescu D, Vastag E, Ali A, Hogea E, Pilut CN. Post-Infection Oscillometry and Pulmonary Metrics in SARS-CoV-2 Patients: A 40-Day Follow-Up Study. Diseases 2023; 11:102. [PMID: 37606473 PMCID: PMC10443293 DOI: 10.3390/diseases11030102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has had significant impacts on pulmonary function. This study aimed to comprehensively evaluate pulmonary function and structure in patients 40 days post-SARS-CoV-2 infection, employing an array of testing methodologies including spirometry, plethysmography, forced oscillometry, and CT scanning. It also sought to establish potential correlations between these metrics and evaluate if forced oscillometry could provide additional value in post-infective lung function assessment. A 40-day post-infection follow-up observational study was conducted involving 66 patients with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection. The results revealed decreases in FVC and FEF25-75 with the increasing severity of COVID-19. Specifically, patients with severe symptoms exhibited statistically significant decreases in FVC (mean = 86.8) compared with those with mild symptoms (mean = 106.0; p = 0.018). The FEF25-75 showed a similar trend, with severe patients exhibiting a mean of 77.7 compared with 82.9 in the mild group (p = 0.017). Furthermore, resonant frequency (RF) increased with disease severity, with the severe group exhibiting a statistically significant increase (mean = 17.4) compared with the mild group (mean = 14.3; p = 0.042). CT scans showed an increase in ground-glass opacities with disease severity, with 81.8% of severe patients demonstrating this finding (p = 0.037). Multiple regression analysis revealed that Reactance at 4 Hz (X4), Forced Expiratory Flow 25-75% (FEF25-75), and Resonant Frequency (RF) were significantly related to COVID-19 severity. Specifically, for each unit increase in these factors, the risk of the event was estimated to increase by a factor of 3.16, 2.09, and 1.90, respectively. Conversely, Resistance at 4 Hz (R4) and Airway Resistance (RAW) were found to significantly decrease the event hazard, highlighting their potential protective role. Spirometry, plethysmography, and forced oscillometry are effective in assessing these changes. Forced oscillometry may be particularly beneficial in identifying subtle changes in lung function post-COVID-19. Further studies are warranted to validate these findings and develop strategies to manage post-infective pulmonary changes in SARS-CoV-2 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noemi Suppini
- Discipline of Pulmonology, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Center for Research and Innovation in Precision Medicine of Respiratory Diseases (CRIPMRD), "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Doctoral School, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Cristian Oancea
- Discipline of Pulmonology, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Center for Research and Innovation in Precision Medicine of Respiratory Diseases (CRIPMRD), "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ovidiu Fira-Mladinescu
- Discipline of Pulmonology, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Center for Research and Innovation in Precision Medicine of Respiratory Diseases (CRIPMRD), "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Daniel Traila
- Discipline of Pulmonology, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Center for Research and Innovation in Precision Medicine of Respiratory Diseases (CRIPMRD), "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Camelia Pescaru
- Discipline of Pulmonology, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Center for Research and Innovation in Precision Medicine of Respiratory Diseases (CRIPMRD), "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Monica Steluta Marc
- Discipline of Pulmonology, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Center for Research and Innovation in Precision Medicine of Respiratory Diseases (CRIPMRD), "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Diana Manolescu
- Center for Research and Innovation in Precision Medicine of Respiratory Diseases (CRIPMRD), "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Emanuela Vastag
- Discipline of Pulmonology, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Center for Research and Innovation in Precision Medicine of Respiratory Diseases (CRIPMRD), "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ayesha Ali
- Bhaskar Medical College, Amdapur Road 156-162, Hyderabad 500075, Telangana State, India
| | - Elena Hogea
- Department of Microbiology, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ciprian Nicolae Pilut
- Department of Microbiology, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
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Bogdan I, Reddyreddy AR, Nelluri A, Maganti RK, Bratosin F, Fericean RM, Dumitru C, Barata PI, Tapalaga G, Marincu I. Fungal Infections Identified with Multiplex PCR in Severe COVID-19 Patients during Six Pandemic Waves. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:1253. [PMID: 37512065 PMCID: PMC10385930 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59071253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: With an increasing number of severe COVID-19 cases presenting with secondary fungal infections, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of fungal co-infections in severe COVID-19 patients across the six waves, identify the most common fungal pathogens associated with severe COVID-19, and explore any potential links between patient characteristics, therapeutic strategies, and the prevalence and type of fungal infection. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on severe COVID-19 patients admitted to the Infectious Diseases and Pulmonology Hospital, "Victor Babes", Romania, between March 2020 and August 2022. Samples were collected from respiratory specimens, blood, and urine, after which a standard nucleic acid extraction protocol was employed. Patients were divided into groups with and without fungal infections, identified using multiplex PCR. The groups were compared based on demographic data, comorbidities, pandemic wave number, and clinical outcomes. Results: Out of 288 patients, 96 (33.3%) had fungal infections, with Candida spp. being the most common. Patients with fungal infections had higher rates of obesity (35.4% vs. 21.4%, p = 0.010) and a higher Charlson comorbidity index (CCI > 2) (37.5% vs 25.0%, p = 0.027). Ventilator use was significantly higher in the fungal infection group (45.8% vs. 18.8%; p < 0.001), as was ICU admission (39.6% vs. 26.6%; p = 0.024) and mortality (32.3% vs 12.0%; p < 0.001). The distribution of different fungal species varied across the pandemic waves, with no statistical significance (p = 0.209). The mortality risk notably increased with the degree of drug resistance (OR for three or more drug resistances = 6.71, p < 0.001). The second, fourth, and fifth pandemic waves were significantly associated with higher mortality risk (OR = 3.72, 3.61, and 4.08, respectively, all p < 0.001). Aspergillus spp. and Mucor spp. infections were significantly associated with increased mortality risk (OR = 4.61 and 6.08, respectively, both p < 0.001). Conclusions: Our study indicates a significant presence of fungal co-infections among severe COVID-19 patients that is associated with increased morbidity and mortality, particularly in patients with drug-resistant infections. These findings underline the necessity for comprehensive diagnostic approaches and tailored treatment strategies in managing COVID-19 patients, especially during specific pandemic waves and in patients with particular fungal infections. Further research is required to understand the implications of these co-infections and their management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iulia Bogdan
- Department XIII, Discipline of Infectious Diseases, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Doctoral School, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | | | - Aditya Nelluri
- School of General Medicine, Sri Siddhartha Medical College, Tumakuru 572107, India
| | - Ram Kiran Maganti
- School of General Medicine, Sri Devaraj Urs Academy of Higher Education and Research, Kolar 563101, India
| | - Felix Bratosin
- Department XIII, Discipline of Infectious Diseases, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Doctoral School, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Roxana Manuela Fericean
- Doctoral School, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Catalin Dumitru
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Paula Irina Barata
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, "Vasile Goldis" Western University of Arad, 310025 Arad, Romania
- Center for Research and Innovation in Precision Medicine of Respiratory Diseases, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Gianina Tapalaga
- Department of Odontotherapy and Endodontics, Faculty of Dental Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Iosif Marincu
- Department XIII, Discipline of Infectious Diseases, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
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Dumitrescu A, Doros G, Lazureanu VE, Septimiu-Radu S, Bratosin F, Rosca O, Patel H, Porosnicu TM, Vitcu GM, Mirea A, Oancea C, Mihaicuta S, Stoicescu ER, Barata PI. Post-Severe-COVID-19 Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation: A Comprehensive Study on Patient Features and Recovery Dynamics in Correlation with Workout Intensity. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4390. [PMID: 37445425 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12134390] [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: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The aftermath of severe COVID-19 frequently involves considerable cardiopulmonary damage, necessitating rehabilitation. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 on cardiopulmonary health and assess the effectiveness of various rehabilitative interventions. Conducted between September 2021 and September 2022, this prospective study included patients who had been diagnosed with severe COVID-19 and admitted at the "Victor Babes" Infectious Diseases and Pulmonology Hospital, Timisoara, Romania. The patients were stratified into low- and high-intensity rehabilitation groups. The rehabilitation protocols were individually tailored, and the patient recovery was closely monitored over a 3-month period. Our cohort comprised 84 patients, with a mean age of 56.3 years for the low-intensity group (n = 42) and 53.1 years for the high-intensity group (n = 42). Both groups showed significant improvements in the lung injury area, need for oxygen supplementation, ejection fraction, systolic pulmonary artery pressure, and forced vital capacity. Additionally, considerable enhancements were observed in maximal voluntary ventilation, FEV1, FEV1/FVC ratio, peak expiratory flow, and forced expiratory flow at 25-75%. The work intensity also demonstrated substantial improvements from the initial testing to the 3-month mark in both groups. This study provides evidence that personalized, targeted rehabilitation strategies can improve long-term cardiopulmonary health in patients recovering from severe COVID-19, proving both low-intensity and high-intensity training as sufficient to improve heart and lung function if performed correctly and over a relatively short duration of 3 months. The study findings underscore the importance of implementing comprehensive cardiopulmonary rehabilitation protocols in the care of post-COVID-19 patients and highlight the value of stratified rehabilitation intensity based on individual patient dynamics and recovery features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreea Dumitrescu
- Cardioprevent Foundation, Calea Dorobantilor 3, 300134 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Gabriela Doros
- Third Discipline of Pediatrics, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Voichita Elena Lazureanu
- Department XIII, Discipline of Infectious Diseases, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Susa Septimiu-Radu
- Department XIII, Discipline of Infectious Diseases, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Doctoral School, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Felix Bratosin
- Department XIII, Discipline of Infectious Diseases, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Doctoral School, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ovidiu Rosca
- Department XIII, Discipline of Infectious Diseases, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Doctoral School, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Harshkumar Patel
- Department of General Medicine, Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Medical College, Rajkot 360001, Gujarat, India
| | - Tamara Mirela Porosnicu
- Doctoral School, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Intensive Care Unit, "Victor Babes" Clinical Hospital for Infectious Diseases and Pneumology, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Gabriela Mut Vitcu
- Cardioprevent Foundation, Calea Dorobantilor 3, 300134 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Andrei Mirea
- Cardioprevent Foundation, Calea Dorobantilor 3, 300134 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Cristian Oancea
- Center for Research and Innovation in Precision Medicine of Respiratory Diseases, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Stefan Mihaicuta
- Cardioprevent Foundation, Calea Dorobantilor 3, 300134 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Emil Robert Stoicescu
- Discipline of Physiology, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Paula Irina Barata
- Discipline of Physiology, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, "Vasile Goldis" Western University of Arad, Revolutiei Square 94, 310025 Arad, Romania
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Porosnicu TM, Sirbu IO, Oancea C, Sandesc D, Bratosin F, Rosca O, Jipa D, Boeriu E, Bandi SSS, Pricop M. The Impact of Therapeutic Plasma Exchange on Inflammatory Markers and Acute Phase Reactants in Patients with Severe SARS-CoV-2 Infection. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:medicina59050867. [PMID: 37241099 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59050867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Due to the poor prognosis and the very high mortality rate associated with severe SARS-CoV-2 infections, various regimens have been tried to stop the evolution of the inflammatory cascade, such as immunomodulatory therapy and plasma clearance of the acute phase reactants involved. Therefore, the objective of this review was to analyze the effects of using therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE), also known as plasmapheresis, on the inflammatory markers of critically ill COVID-19 patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). Materials and Methods: A thorough scientific database search was performed, and it included a review of articles published on PubMed, Cochrane Database, Scopus, and Web of Science from the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020 until September 2022 that focused on the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infections using plasma exchange for patients admitted to the ICU. The current study included original articles, reviews, editorials, and short or special communications regarding the topic of interest. Results: A total of 13 articles were selected after satisfying the inclusion criterion of three or more patients enrolled with clinically severe COVID-19 that were eligible for TPE. From the included articles, it was observed that TPE was used as a last-resort salvage therapy that can be regarded as an alternative treatment method when the standard management for these patients fails. TPE significantly decreased the inflammatory status as measured by Interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), lymphocyte count, and D-dimers, as well as improving the clinical status measured with PaO2/FiO2 and duration of hospitalization. The pooled mortality risk reduction after TPE was 20%. Conclusions: There are sufficient studies and evidence to show that TPE reduces inflammatory mediators and improves coagulation function and the clinical/paraclinical status. Nevertheless, although it was shown that TPE decreases the severe inflammatory status without significant complications, the improvement of survival rate remains unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Mirela Porosnicu
- Doctoral School, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Intensive Care Unit, "Pius Brinzeu" Emergency Clinical County Hospital, 300723 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ioan Ovidiu Sirbu
- Center for Complex Network Sciences, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Cristian Oancea
- Center for Research and Innovation in Precision Medicine of Respiratory Disease, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Dorel Sandesc
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Felix Bratosin
- Department XIII, Discipline of Infectious Disease, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ovidiu Rosca
- Department XIII, Discipline of Infectious Disease, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Daniel Jipa
- Intensive Care Unit, "Pius Brinzeu" Emergency Clinical County Hospital, 300723 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Estera Boeriu
- Department of Pediatrics, Discipline of Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Satya Sai Sri Bandi
- Malla Reddy Institute of Medical Sciences, Suraram Main Road 138, Hyderabad 500055, India
| | - Marius Pricop
- Discipline of Oral and Maxillo-Facial Surgery, Faculty of Dental Medicine, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
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Septimiu-Radu S, Gadela T, Gabriela D, Oancea C, Rosca O, Lazureanu VE, Fericean RM, Bratosin F, Dumitrescu A, Stoicescu ER, Bagiu I, Murariu M, Mavrea A. A Systematic Review of Lung Autopsy Findings in Elderly Patients after SARS-CoV-2 Infection. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12052070. [PMID: 36902856 PMCID: PMC10004532 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12052070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Although COVID-19 may cause various and multiorgan diseases, few research studies have examined the postmortem pathological findings of SARS-CoV-2-infected individuals who died. Active autopsy results may be crucial for understanding how COVID-19 infection operates and preventing severe effects. In contrast to younger persons, however, the patient's age, lifestyle, and concomitant comorbidities might alter the morpho-pathological aspects of the damaged lungs. Through a systematic analysis of the available literature until December 2022, we aimed to provide a thorough picture of the histopathological characteristics of the lungs in patients older than 70 years who died of COVID-19. A thorough search was conducted on three electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science), including 18 studies and a total of 478 autopsies performed. It was observed that the average age of patients was 75.6 years, of which 65.4% were men. COPD was identified in an average of 16.7% of all patients. Autopsy findings indicated significantly heavier lungs, with an average weight of the right lung of 1103 g, while the left lung mass had an average weight of 848 g. Diffuse alveolar damage was a main finding in 67.2% of all autopsies, while pulmonary edema had a prevalence of between 50% and 70%. Thrombosis was also a significant finding, while some studies described focal and extensive pulmonary infarctions in 72.7% of elderly patients. Pneumonia and bronchopneumonia were observed, with a prevalence ranging from 47.6% to 89.5%. Other important findings described in less detail comprise hyaline membranes, the proliferation of pneumocytes and fibroblasts, extensive suppurative bronchopneumonic infiltrates, intra-alveolar edema, thickened alveolar septa, desquamation of pneumocytes, alveolar infiltrates, multinucleated giant cells, and intranuclear inclusion bodies. These findings should be corroborated with children's and adults' autopsies. Postmortem examination as a technique for studying the microscopic and macroscopic features of the lungs might lead to a better knowledge of COVID-19 pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment, hence enhancing elderly patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susa Septimiu-Radu
- Department XIII, Discipline of Infectious Disease, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Doctoral School, ‘’Victor Babes’’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Tejaswi Gadela
- School of General Medicine, Bhaskar Medical College, Amdapur Road 156-162, Hyderabad 500075, India
| | - Doros Gabriela
- Department of Pediatrics, Discipline of Infectious Disease, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Cristian Oancea
- Center for Research and Innovation in Precision Medicine of Respiratory Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ovidiu Rosca
- Department XIII, Discipline of Infectious Disease, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Voichita Elena Lazureanu
- Department XIII, Discipline of Infectious Disease, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Roxana Manuela Fericean
- Department XIII, Discipline of Infectious Disease, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Doctoral School, ‘’Victor Babes’’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Felix Bratosin
- Department XIII, Discipline of Infectious Disease, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Doctoral School, ‘’Victor Babes’’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Andreea Dumitrescu
- Cardioprevent Foundation, Calea Dorobantilor 3, Timisoara 300134, Romania
| | - Emil Robert Stoicescu
- Doctoral School, ‘’Victor Babes’’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Iulia Bagiu
- Department of Microbiology, Multidisciplinary Research Center on Antimicrobial Resistance, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Correspondence:
| | - Mircea Murariu
- Doctoral School, ‘’Victor Babes’’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Department of Pediatrics, Discipline of Infectious Disease, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Adelina Mavrea
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Cardiology Clinic, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
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Palazzuoli A, Beltrami M, McCullough PA. Acute COVID-19 Management in Heart Failure Patients: A Specific Setting Requiring Detailed Inpatient and Outpatient Hospital Care. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11030790. [PMID: 36979769 PMCID: PMC10045184 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11030790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The relationship existing between heart failure (HF) and COVID-19 remains questioned and poorly elucidated. Many reports suggest that HF events are reduced during pandemics, although other studies have demonstrated higher mortality and sudden death in patients affected by HF. Several vascular, thrombotic, and respiratory features may deteriorate stable HF patients; therefore, the infection may directly cause direct myocardial damage, leading to cardiac function deterioration. Another concern is related to the possibility that antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and corticosteroid agents commonly employed during acute COVID-19 infection may have potentially deleterious effects on the cardiovascular (CV) system. For these reasons, HF patients deserve specific management with a tailored approach in order to avoid arrhythmic complications and fluid retention events. In this review, we describe the complex interplay between COVID-19 and HF, the evolving trend of infection with related CV events, and the specific management strategy to adopt in this setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Palazzuoli
- Cardiovascular Diseases Unit, Department of Medical Sciences, Le Scotte Hospital University of Siena Italy, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Matteo Beltrami
- Cardiology Unit, San Giovanni di Dio Hospital, Azienda USL Toscana Centro, 50134 Florence, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-339-5418158
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11
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Porosnicu TM, Sandesc D, Jipa D, Gindac C, Oancea C, Bratosin F, Fericean RM, Kodimala SC, Pilut CN, Nussbaum LA, Sirbu IO. Assessing the Outcomes of Patients with Severe SARS-CoV-2 Infection after Therapeutic Plasma Exchange by Number of TPE Sessions. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12051743. [PMID: 36902537 PMCID: PMC10003394 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12051743] [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: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The high mortality risk in severe SARS-CoV-2 infections is tightly correlated to the extreme elevation of inflammatory markers. This acute accumulation of inflammatory proteins can be cleared using plasma exchange (TPE), commonly known as plasmapheresis, although the available data on performing TPE in COVID-19 patients is limited regarding the optimal treatment protocol. The purpose for this study was to examine the efficacy and outcomes of TPE based on different treatment methods. A thorough database search was performed to identify patients from the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the Clinical Hospital of Infectious Diseases and Pneumology between March 2020 and March 2022 with severe COVID-19 that underwent at least one session of TPE. A total of 65 patients satisfied the inclusion criteria and were eligible for TPE as a last resort therapy. Of these, 41 patients received 1 TPE session, 13 received 2 TPE sessions, and the remaining 11 received more than 2 TPE sessions. It was observed that IL-6, CRP, and ESR decreased significantly after all sessions were performed in all three groups, with the highest decrease of IL-6 in those who received >2 TPE sessions (from 305.5 pg/mL to 156.0 pg/mL). Interestingly, there was a significant increase in leucocyte levels after TPE, but there was no significant difference in MAP changes, SOFA score, APACHE 2 score, or the PaO2/FiO2 ratio. The ROX index was significantly higher among the patients who underwent more than two TPE sessions, with an average of 11.4, compared to 6.5 in group 1 and 7.4 in group 2, which increased significantly after TPE. Nevertheless, the mortality rate was very high (72.3%), and the Kaplan-Meier analysis identified no significant difference in survival according to the number of TPE sessions. TPE can be used as last resort salvage therapy that can be regarded as an alternative treatment method when the standard management of these patients fails. It significantly decreases the inflammatory status measured via IL-6, CRP, and WBC, as well as demonstrating an improvement of the clinical status measured via PaO2/FiO2, and duration of hospitalization. However, the survival rate does not seem to change with the number of TPE sessions. Based on the survival analysis, one session of TPE as last resort treatment in patients with severe COVID-19 proved to have the same effect as repeated TPE sessions of 2 or more.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Mirela Porosnicu
- Doctoral School, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Intensive Care Unit, “Victor Babes” Clinical Hospital for Infectious Diseases and Pneumology, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Dorel Sandesc
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Intensive Care Unit, “Pius Brinzeu” Emergency Clinical Hospital, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Daniel Jipa
- Intensive Care Unit, “Pius Brinzeu” Emergency Clinical Hospital, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ciprian Gindac
- Intensive Care Unit, “Pius Brinzeu” Emergency Clinical Hospital, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Cristian Oancea
- Center for Research and Innovation in Precision Medicine of Respiratory Disease, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Felix Bratosin
- Department XIII, Discipline of Infectious Disease, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Roxana Manuela Fericean
- Department XIII, Discipline of Infectious Disease, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Shiva Charana Kodimala
- MediCiti Institute of Medical Sciences, NTR University of Health Sciences, Hyderabad 501401, India
| | - Ciprian Nicolae Pilut
- Department of Microbiology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
- Correspondence:
| | - Laura Alexandra Nussbaum
- Department of Neurosciences, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ioan Ovidiu Sirbu
- Center for Complex Network Sciences, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
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12
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COVID-19 Clinical Features and Outcomes in Elderly Patients during Six Pandemic Waves. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11226803. [PMID: 36431282 PMCID: PMC9692444 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11226803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Many elderly patients with severe SARS-CoV-2 infections and COVID-19 infections are admitted to intensive care units. Age was previously identified as an independent risk factor for death and contributed to the greater severity of COVID-19. The elderly may have diminished lung functions, poor reactions to artificial ventilation, and compromised immune systems. However, it is yet uncertain how each pandemic wave and the predominant SARS-CoV-2 strains contribute to varying results and how patient groups such as the elderly are impacted. Comparing six COVID-19 pandemic waves, the objective of this study was to examine the variation in case severity, symptomatology, ICU hospitalizations, and mortality among SARS-CoV-2-infected elderly individuals. The study followed a retrospective design, including 60 eligible patients older than 70 years in each of the six pandemic wave groups, after matching them by the number of comorbidities and gender. SARS-CoV-2 infection during the first, third, and fourth pandemic waves had a significantly higher risk of mortality for hospitalized patients. Confusion and dyspnea at admission were significant risk factors for ICU admission in elderly patients (β = 1.92, respectively β = 3.65). The laboratory parameters identified decreased lymphocytes (β = 2.11), elevated IL-6 (β = 1.96), and procalcitonin (β = 2.46) as the most significant risk factors. The third and fourth COVID-19 waves had considerably more severe infections (31.7% and 26.7%) than the sixth wave (13.3%). Median ICU stay and percentage of patients receiving oxygen support also differed across pandemic waves. However, mortality rates between the six pandemic waves were similar. The average length of hospitalization varied dramatically among the six pandemic waves. Although senior patients are more likely to have worse COVID-19 outcomes after hospitalization, this risk is mitigated by the greater prevalence of comorbidities and frailty among the elderly. The six pandemic waves that were specifically evaluated did not reveal considerably disproportionate variations in terms of patient mortality; however, during the fourth pandemic wave, there were likely more hospitalized patients with severe COVID-19 in Romania. It is probable that certain circulating SARS-CoV-2 strains were more infectious, resulting in an increase in infections and a strain on healthcare systems, which might explain the variations found in our research.
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The Impact of SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic on Patients with Malignant Melanoma at a Romanian Academic Center: A Four-Year Retrospective Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19148499. [PMID: 35886351 PMCID: PMC9317187 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19148499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Considering cancer patients may be at an increased risk of severe COVID-19 disease, their oncologic treatment cannot be delayed without risking their oncologic outcomes. Considering this, a comprehensive evaluation is required for the management of malignant diseases such as melanoma. The current study aimed to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the delivery of cancer care services for patients diagnosed with malignant melanoma in Romania; to document the difference in patients’ addressability and melanoma staging between the pandemic and pre-pandemic periods; as well as to determine the risk factors responsible for disease progression during the pandemic. We developed a retrospective analysis using a monocentric hospital database to compare the final 24 months of the pre-pandemic era to the first 24 months of the COVID-19 pandemic. All outpatients and inpatients with a diagnosis of malignant melanoma were screened during the study period and included in the analysis if matching the inclusion criteria. A total of 301 patients were included in the study, with 163 cases identified in the 24 months before the COVID-19 pandemic and 138 patients during the first 24 months of the pandemic. It was observed during the first two lockdown periods from March to May 2020, and, respectively, from October to December 2020, that significantly fewer patients with malignant melanoma presented for specialized medical care, while there was a statistically significantly lower proportion of outpatients due to COVID-19 restrictions (18.1% vs. 42.9%). The average Breslow depth was 1.1 mm before the pandemic, compared with 1.8 mm during the pandemic (p-value < 0.001). Third-stage patients were the most prevalent during both study periods, although with a statistically significant difference during the pandemic, with an increase from 90 (55.2%) patients to 94 (68.1%) (p-value < 0.001). The significant risk factors for disease progression were advanced AJCC stage (HR = 3.48), high Breslow index (HR = 3.19), postponed treatment (HR = 2.46), missed appointments (HR = 2.31), anemia at presentation (HR = 1.60), and patient’s age (HR = 1.57). After the pandemic limitations are brought to an end, a broad skin-cancer-screening campaign is warranted to detect the missed cases during COVID-19.
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