Abstract

Although SARS-CoV-2, responsible for COVID-19, is primarily a respiratory infection, a broad spectrum of cardiac, pulmonary, neurologic, and metabolic complications can occur. More than 50 long-term symptoms of COVID-19 have been described, and as many as 80% of patients may develop ≥1 long-term symptom. To summarize current perspectives of long-term sequelae of COVID-19, we conducted a PubMed search describing the long-term cardiovascular, pulmonary, gastrointestinal, and neurologic effects post-SARS-CoV-2 infection and mechanistic insights and risk factors for the above-mentioned sequelae. Emerging risk factors of long-term sequelae include older age (≥65 years), female sex, Black or Asian race, Hispanic ethnicity, and presence of comorbidities. There is an urgent need to better understand ongoing effects of COVID-19. Prospective studies evaluating long-term effects of COVID-19 in all body systems and patient groups will facilitate appropriate management and assess burden of care. Clinicians should ensure patients are followed up and managed appropriately, especially those in at-risk groups. Healthcare systems worldwide need to develop approaches to follow-up and support patients recovering from COVID-19. Surveillance programs can enhance prevention and treatment efforts for those most vulnerable.

摘要

尽管导致 COVID-19 的 SARS-CoV-2 主要是呼吸道感染，但也可能发生广泛的心脏、肺、神经和代谢并发症。已经描述了 50 多种 COVID-19 的长期症状，多达 80% 的患者可能会出现 ≥1 种长期症状。为了总结当前对 COVID-19 长期后遗症的看法，我们进行了一项 PubMed 搜索，描述了 SARS-CoV-2 感染后的长期心血管、肺、胃肠道和神经系统影响以及上述机制的见解和风险因素——提到的后遗症。新出现的长期后遗症危险因素包括年龄较大（≥65 岁）、女性、黑人或亚裔、西班牙裔和存在合并症。迫切需要更好地了解 COVID-19 的持续影响。评估 COVID-19 对所有身体系统和患者群体的长期影响的前瞻性研究将促进适当的管理和评估护理负担。临床医生应确保对患者进行适当的随访和管理，尤其是高危人群。全世界的医疗保健系统都需要开发方法来跟踪和支持从 COVID-19 中康复的患者。监测计划可以加强对最脆弱人群的预防和治疗工作。