Endothelial cell dysfunction and inflammation are signs of acute COVID-19 infections , but little is known about the long-term effects on the heart and vascular system. In a first-of-its-kind study, researchers from Houston Methodist have revealed a new understanding of reduced blood flow in the body and COVID-19. The study has been published in JACC: Cardiovascular Imaging .
In this study, coronary microvasculature health was examined in 393 participants (mean age 65 ± 11 years, 51% men), out of which 101 cases had prior COVID-19 infection, and 292 cases were control. By using PET, a 20% decrease in the dilation ability of coronary arteries, known as microvascular dysfunction, was observed in the patients. Additionally, patients with prior COVID-19 infection were more likely to have reduced myocardial flow reserve and changes in the resting and stress blood flow, signifying poor…
