Coronavirus disease 2019 and cardiovascular implications.

Frattini, Silvia; Maccagni, Gloria; Italia, Leonardo; Metra, Marco; Danzi, Gian B

: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease with significant implications for the cardiovascular care of patients. COVID-19 interacts with the cardiovascular system on multiple levels, increasing morbidity in patients with underlying cardiovascular conditions and favoring acute myocardial injury and dysfunction. COVID-19 infection may also have long-term implications for overall cardiovascular health. Many issues regarding the involvement of the cardiovascular system remain controversial. Despite angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 serving as the site of entry of the virus into the cells, the role of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or AT1 blockers is not clear and requires further investigation. Therapies under investigation for COVID-19 may have cardiovascular side effects. Treatment of COVID-19, especially the use of antivirals, must be closely monitored. This article is a review of the most updated literature.