Mechanisms of pulmonary hypertension development in COVID-19

Abstract

The novel coronavirus infection caused by SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-relate CoronaVirus 2) is a serious disease often associated with cardiovascular complications. The combination of acute respiratory distress syndrome, invasive ventilation, thromboembolic complications, and direct myocardial injury creates conditions that increase likelihood of right ventricular (RV) dysfunction due to pulmonary hypertension (PH). The aim of the work was to search for literature sources in the PubMed, Google Scholar and eLibrary databases and analyze these sources to elucidate the main pathophysiological mechanisms that underly the onset and progression of PH in COVID-19 (COronaVIrus Disease 2019). Viral damage to the myocardium and pulmonary vascular endothelium in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 may contribute to the development of PH, which is associated with signs of a more severe course of the disease and the development of RV failure in the future. Results. It was concluded that the routine echocardiography protocol should be expanded with additional indicators of the right ventricular function, since these data can be used can be used to predict course of the disease. Conclusion. Based on the literature data, COVID-19 can lead to the development of clinically significant PH in some cases.