ABSTRACT
Several studies suggest that genetic variants that influence the onset, maintenance and resolution of the immune response might be fundamental in predicting the evolution of COVID-19. In the present paper, we analysed the dis-tribution of GM allotypes (the genetic markers of immunoglobulin g chains) in symptomatic and asymptomatic COVID-19 patients and in healthy controls, all born and residing in Sicily. Indeed, the role played by GM allotypes in immune responses and infection control is well known. Our findings show that the GM23 allotype is significantly reduced in healthy controls. Interestingly, in a previous study, Sicilians carrying the GM23 allotype were associated with the risk of developing a symptomatic Human Cytomegalovirus infection. However, a note of caution should be considered, due to the small sample size of patients and controls.
ABSTRACT
Background Since December 2019, the new coronavirus disease (COVID-19) or severe acute respiratory syndrome SARS-CoV-2 has spread rapidly around the world and has reached pandemic proportions that have affected all continents. Methods Thanks to the PICO research strategy (population, intervention, comparison, results), a specific search string was used. To include relevant literature on the topic, several search terms belonging to each PICO section were combined. 339 studies published in English in the last 3 years (2020-2022) were identified, available on: EMBASE and MEDLINE. Results The studies included in this narrative review included 14 observational studies. Summarize the article's main findings. Conclusions Cultural, social and economic differences significantly influenced the mental health condition of all healthcare workers involved. Copyright © 2022 by Pacini Editore Srl.
ABSTRACT
Background and Aims: A proportion of patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) need hospitalization due to severe respiratory symptoms. This study describes the characteristics of survivors of severe COVID-19 subsequently admitted to inpatient pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) and identifies their rehabilitation needs. Subjects and methods: From the COVID-19 Registry of the Fondazione Don Gnocchi we extracted 203 patients admitted for inpatient PR after severe COVID-19 from April 2020 till September 2021. Specific information on the acute-hospital stay, clinical and functional characteristics on admission to the rehabilitation units were collected. Result(s): During the acute phase of the disease 80% of patients needed ICU admission, receiving mechanical ventilation (MV) for 26 days. On admission to the rehabilitation units, 10% of patients were still on MV, 28% had tracheostomy, 70% were on O2 therapy, 24% were diagnosed critical illness neuropathy. Eighty % showed a modified Barthel Index <75 and only 25% were able to perform a six-minute walk test. Montreal Cognitive Assessment and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale were also performed, indicating a variable presence of neurocognitive impairment and symptoms of anxiety and/or depression. Moreover, 32% scored >=2 at the Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool and 47% showed dysphagia needing logopedic treatment Conclusion(s): Our analysis shows that patients admitted for inpatient PR after severe COVID-19 represent a multifaceted and clinically complex patient population who need customized, comprehensive rehabilitation programs, carried out by teams with different professional skills.