Biomedical Science and Clinical Research(BSCR)
ISSN: 2835-7914 | DOI: 10.33140/BSCR
Impact Factor: 1.7
Cardiovascular Sequelae of COVID-19: A Narrative Review on Myocarditis, Microthrombosis, and Beyond
Abstract
Brendan Jones
Background SARS-CoV-2 infection has been linked to both acute and long-term cardiovascular (CV) complications.
Objective Provide a narrative synthesis of evidence on cardiac remodeling, myocarditis, arrhythmia, microthrombosis, and heart failure following COVID-19.
Methods We reviewed PubMed-indexed clinical and epidemiologic studies (2020–2025) addressing post-acute CV complications.
Results COVID-19 survivors face elevated risks of myocarditis (~6×), arrhythmias (~1.6×), and heart failure (1.7–2×) even after mild disease [1-3]. Endothelial dysfunction, microthrombi, direct myocardial injury, and inflammation underpin these sequelae [3-5]. CMR studies in athletes show low prevalence of clinically relevant myocarditis (~1–3%), with subclinical fibrosis in a minority [6-8].
Conclusions Persistent CV sequelae after COVID-19 are prevalent and clinically relevant; surveillance with imaging, biomarkers, and guideline-based therapy is imperative.