COVID-19 Induced Cardiomyopathy Successfully Treated with Tocilizumab.

Background. Currently, the literature regarding the management of COVID-19 induced cardiomyopathy with reduced ejection fraction is limited. In this case report, we present the first documented case of COVID-19 induced myocardial stunning leading to severely reduced LV systolic function that was reversed by the administration of corticosteroids and tocilizumab. Case Summary. A 39-year-old female with well controlled systemic hypertension, tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA and underwent self-isolation for 14 days. Patient presented to our facility a month later with one-week history of progressively worsening generalized body aches, chills, fever, watery diarrhea, nausea with associated mild dry nonproductive cough, shortness of breath and nonspecific chest pain. Initial labs demonstrated that she was COVID-19 positive, elevated troponin (4.295 ng/ml), and elevated BNP (2,291 pg/ml). Her initial Transthoracic echocardiography demonstrated an Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of 20-25% with apical akinesis. After administration of tocilizumab and corticosteroids, patient demonstrated interval improvement with LVEF improving to 50-55% within days. Her labs confirmed these findings with improved troponin (0.858 ng/ml) and BNP (209 pg/ml). Discussion. This case demonstrates that it can be safe and efficacious to use tocilizumab and corticosteroids in patients with COVID-19 induced cardiomyopathy. These finding suggest that cytokine storm is the predominant mechanism by which COVID-19 induced cardiomyopathy occurs. Additional studies are required to determine the role of corticosteroids and tocilizumab in management of this condition.

Cardiac transplant recipient with COVID-19 induced acute hypoxic respiratory failure: a case report.

BACKGROUND: Heart transplant recipients represent a particularly vulnerable patient population to the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) due to chronic immunosuppression and high rates of comorbidities. Currently, data are limited and evidence to guide management of heart transplant recipients with COVID-19 is sparse. In this case report, we provide a summary of the current literature as well as an in-depth analysis of our clinical decision-making. CASE SUMMARY: A 67-year-old female who underwent cardiac transplantation 1 year prior was found to have acute hypoxic respiratory failure due to COVID-19. Her immunosuppressant medications were modulated with discontinuation of mycophenolate and titration of tacrolimus troughs with a goal of 6-10 ng/dL. She was administered supportive treatment including convalescent plasma, remdesivir, and dexamethasone, in addition to antibiotic treatment that resulted in resolution of her symptoms within a matter of days despite her precarious disposition. DISCUSSION: This case demonstrates that it can be safe and efficacious to modulate immunosuppressant medications in cardiac transplant recipients in accordance with recommendations made by the International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation. This case additionally demonstrates that aspects of the current literature regarding the management of COVID-19 can be safely extrapolated to cardiac transplant recipients. Providing supportive care with dexamethasone, remdesivir, and convalescent plasma as indicated can be beneficial in cardiac transplant recipients; although, the current literature regarding convalescent plasma and remdesivir is conflicting.