COVID-19, COPD, and AECOPD: Immunological, Epidemiological, and Clinical Aspects

Abstract

The newly identified severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes several heterogeneous clinical conditions collectively known as Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19). Older patients with significant cardiovascular conditions and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are predisposed to a more severe disease complicated with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), which is associated with high morbidity and mortality. COPD is associated with increased susceptibility to respiratory infections, and viruses are among the top causes of acute exacerbations of COPD (AECOPD). Thus, COVID-19 could represent the ultimate cause of AECOPD. This review will examine the pathobiological processes underlying SARS-CoV-2 infection, including the effects of cigarette smoke and COPD on the immune system and vascular endothelium, and the known effects of cigarette smoke on the onset and progression of COVID-19. We will also review the epidemiological data on COVID-19 prevalence and outcome in patients with COPD and analyze the pathobiological and clinical features of SARS-CoV-2 infection in the context of other known viral causes of AECOPD. Overall, SARS-CoV-2 shares common pathobiological and clinical features with other viral agents responsible for increased morbidity, thus representing a novel cause of AECOPD with the potential for a more long-term adverse impact. Longitudinal studies aimed at COPD patients surviving COVID-19 are needed to identify therapeutic targets for SARS-CoV2 and prevent the disease's burden in this vulnerable population.

Structural basis of coronavirus E protein interactions with human PALS1 PDZ domain

“…The emergence of the novel coronavirus severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) at the end of 2019 in China led to a global pandemic with currently 120 M infections and over 2.5 M deaths 1 . In addition to the substantial morbidity and mortality associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection 2 , the pandemic has led to major global economic dislocations, spurring a concerted worldwide campaign to develop therapeutics targeting this virus.…”

Cardiac biomarkers, cardiac injury, and comorbidities associated with severe illness and mortality in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19): A systematic review and meta‐analysis

“…Several recent studies have described the clinical characteristics and epidemiological findings of COVID‐19 that were tightly implicated in the cardiovascular system. 9 , 10 , 11 Nevertheless, due to the mounting clinical research, further and broader elucidation can be carried out. Here we summarize the current literature to explore the correlation between cardiac‐related comorbidities, cardiac biomarkers, acute myocardial injury, and severity level or outcomes in COVID‐19 patients.…”

Construction and validation of risk prediction model for deep vein thrombosis in acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease based on serum angiopoietin 2 levels

“…Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common disease of the respiratory system mainly characterized by a continuous airflow limitation due to airways and/or alveolar abnormalities usually caused by significant exposure to noxious particles or gases. COPD is associated with recurrent episodes, high morbidity, disability, and mortality (1). Most patients with COPD have persistent systemic inflammation, chronic hypoxia, and impaired pulmonary function over a long time.…”