COVID-19 can potentially affect different organs throughout the organism, since the expression of ACE-2 has been found in several different tissues. From neurological manifestations to fertility concerns, long-term effects of COVID-19 are yet to be determined.
Should we develop a structured, well-organized and sort of standardized multi-centric long-term follow-up of at least part of these patients?
For instance, I do not find impossible that some of these patients may develop relative adrenal insufficiency in the long run. Besides, it seems that those more severely affected by COVID-19 do not present full remission of fatigue - would this complain persist for longer periods? Would the lungs be the only organ to justify this refractory fatigue?
In Zyka and Chikungunya viruses, we are now observing several chronic effects in Brazil, particularly on arthralgia, fibromialgia-like symptoms, signs mimicking rheumatic disorders, and chronic fatigue, that may last for years.
Just some thoughts. It may seem too early to think. But this may become a big issue with time.
We are all together in this battle.
The Great Invader: How COVID-19 Attacks Every Organ? https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/929284?src=wnl_edit_tpal&uac=72807PK&impID=2358688&faf=1
Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) causing COVID-19 pandemic is surprising us every day and teaching us new lessons, the acute manifestations are being learned everyday as discussed in the above article on medscape..
What are the long-term effects on patients who brave the attack of COViD-19 by recovering is still unknown. What are the long-term effects on pulmonary function, immune system, cardiovascular, neurological, endocrine system, psychopsciatric health and blood is still not known. These effects will be known by long-term follow up but would likely depend on the severity of the illness, age and comorbid conditions.
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The long term follow up is of utmost importance.
A planned schedule of the visits, the clinical and laboratory investigations must be designed and implemented.
These will of course may need updation as more systemic manifestations unfold.