This infographic explores the cardiovascular risks linked to viral infections, focusing on SARS-CoV-2 and its impact on heart health. It outlines complications such as pericarditis, myocarditis, acute heart failure, acute coronary syndrome, and arrhythmias. A key component of the infographic is the role of the ACE-2 receptor, which facilitates viral entry but also provides some protective effect against lung injury. However, the overall impact of ACE-2 receptor upregulation is still under investigation.
Additionally, the graphic addresses the intersection of hypertension, diabetes, and heart failure with the use of ACE inhibitors (ACE-I) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB). Current guidance recommends maintaining patients on these medications despite uncertainties about the receptor’s impact. Both myocardial and lung injuries are underscored, reflecting the systemic nature of SARS-CoV-2 beyond respiratory symptoms.
Author
CardioNerds Infographics
Explore our comprehensive collection of infographics, categorized by cardiovascular topics such as heart failure and transplantation, arrhythmias and electrophysiology, cardio-obstetrics, cardiovascular imaging, congenital heart disease, prevention, coronary artery disease, critical care, hypertension, pericardial disease, pulmonary hypertension, valvular heart disease, vascular disease, women’s cardiovascular health, diversity, inclusion, and more!
Feel free to download and share these visuals in presentations or on social media. Please use the infographics as provided—without altering or cropping out the creators’ credit.
For even more learning, explore the CardioNerds Tweetorial Page, featuring a curated collection of educational tweetorials!
