Abstract
An: 2023, Nr.1, Articol Nr. 1
Title:
COVID-19 ISSUES RELATED TO LIVER DISEASE IN PEDIATRIC POPULATION
Authors:
Lorena Mihaela Manole - “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iaşi, România, I.O.S.U.D; “Saint Mary” Emergency Children Hospital Iaşi, România
Laura Mihaela Trandafir, Laura Florescu - “Saint Mary” Emergency Children Hospital Iaşi, România; “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iaşi, România, I.O.S.U.D, Mother and Child Department
Roxana Şerban - “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iaşi, România, I.O.S.U.D, Department of Morfo-Functional Sciences II
Otilia Iftinchi - “Saint Mary” Emergency Children Hospital Iaşi, România
Roxana Mihaela Popescu - “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iaşi, România, I.O.S.U.D, Department of Radiology
Oana Raluca Temneanu - “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iaşi, România, I.O.S.U.D, Mother and Child Department
COVID-19 ISSUES RELATED TO LIVER DISEASE IN PEDIATRIC POPULATION (Abstract): Objective: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by SARS-CoV-2 has had a significant impact on global health, economy, and society. While COVID-19 primarily affects older individuals and those with underlying health conditions, children generally experience milder symptoms or are asymptomatic. Liver injury caused by COVID-19 is a common complication, but often goes unnoticed in children. This review aims to analyze published studies on liver injuries related to COVID-19 specifically in pediatric patients. Material and Methods: A comprehensive search of medical databases was conducted to identify relevant articles published up to May 2023. Results: A total of 141 articles were identified, and 21 articles were included in this review after careful selection. COVID-19-related liver injury can occur during the disease progression or as a result of treatment. Discussions: The mechanisms underlying liver injury include direct toxic effects of COVID-19 on liver cells, inflammatory immune response, hypoxia-mediated injury, and drug-induced liver injury. Abnormal liver enzyme levels, such as elevated ALT, AST, ALP, GGT, TBIL, and reduced albumin, indicate liver injury in COVID-19 patients. Autopsy findings in pediatric cases reveal specific pathological changes associated with COVID-19, including lung abnormalities and liver congestion. Conclusions: Liver damage in children with COVID-19 is often underestimated, and further research will enhance our understanding of these aspects is crucial for effective prevention and management strategies in pediatric cases of COVID-19.
Key words: COVID-19, SARS-COV-2, LIVER ISSUES DAMAGE, CHILDREN, PATHOGENESIS
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