Clinical and morphological characteristics of COVID-19-associated myocarditis. (14th October 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kogan, E A; Kukleva, A D; Blagova, O V; Berezovskij, Y U S
• Is Part Of: European heart journal. Volume 42(2021)Supplement 1
• Publication Date: 2021-10-14
• Subjects: Leukocytes, Inflammation, Immunity; Cardiology -- Periodicals; Heart -- Diseases -- Periodicals; 616.12005
• DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehab724.3341
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0195-668X

Abstract

Abstract: Background: COVID-19 is accompanied by the development of a wide range of cardiovascular lesions. The goal: to study the clinical and morphological features of SARS-CoV-2-associated myocarditis (SCM), determining the presence of viral RNA and proteins in myocardial tissue. Methods: The study was based on 32 autopsies with a confirmed diagnosis of myocarditis. The average age of the patients was 72.7±15.5 years. Men predominated in the group (53%). The immunohistochemical determination of the surface markers of CD45, CD3, CD20, CD 68 inflammatory infiltrates and SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid and spike protein has been done. Detection of coronavirus RNA was performed. Results: The clinical manifestations SCM included heart failure and variety of rhythm disturbances. Increased level of anticardiac antibodies was detected. Lymphomacrophage infiltrates (more than 7 CD3+ T-lymphocytes, more than 14 CD45+ lymphocytes and more than 7 CD68+ macrophages per 1 mm 2 ) were found in 100% of cases. RNA of the virus was detected in myocardial tissue. Virus proteins were identified in macrophages of the inflammatory infiltrate and cardiomyocytes. Conclusion: The results suggest persistence of the virus in the myocardium and the development of chronic myocarditis. Funding Acknowledgement: Type of funding sources: Foundation. Main funding source(s): Russian Foundation for Fundamental Research