Covid-19's severity factors and hemorheology
What is it about?
Low plasma estrogens, vitamin D deficiency, obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, thromboembolism, and impaired microcirculation are linked to the severity of covid-19. Studies have suggested that these comorbidities also are related to erythrocyte factors linked to increased blood viscosity. Increased blood viscosity in microcirculation can lead to a decrease in oxygenation and nutrition of tissues. This article discusses the possibilities of the use of hemorheological parameters such as erythrocyte aggregation and erythrocyte deformability to research Covid-19 pathophysiology and possible preventive approaches.
Why is it important?
Erythrocyte aggregation and erythrocyte deformability are likely to be impaired in patients with a higher probability to develop severe covid-19. If this relationship is proved, we can use these hemorheological parameters to monitor treatments and lifestyle improvements in order to improve health and decrease the chance of severe covid-19.