Lim JK, Njei B. Clinical and Histopathological Discoveries in Patients with Hepatic Injury and Cholangiopathy Who Have Died of COVID-19: Insights and Opportunities for Intervention.
Hepat Med 2023;
15:151-164. [PMID:
37814605 PMCID:
PMC10560482 DOI:
10.2147/hmer.s385133]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on global health, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of its diverse manifestations. Cholangiopathy, a condition characterized by biliary dysfunction, has emerged as a significant complication in COVID-19 patients. In this review, we report the epidemiology of COVID-19, describe the hepatotropism of SARS-CoV-2, and present the histopathology of acute liver injury (ALI) in COVID-19. Additionally, we explore the relationship between pre-existing chronic liver disease and COVID-19, shedding light on the increased susceptibility of these individuals to develop cholangiopathy. Through an in-depth analysis of cholangiopathy in COVID-19 patients, we elucidate its clinical manifestations, diagnostic criteria, and underlying pathogenesis involving inflammation, immune dysregulation, and vascular changes. Furthermore, we provide a summary of studies investigating post-COVID-19 cholangiopathy, highlighting the long-term effects and potential management strategies for this condition, and discussing opportunities for intervention, including therapeutic targets, diagnostic advancements, supportive care, and future research needs.
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